Ardan’s hands were warm and I hadn’t realised that I longed for his touch ever since.

“You shouldn’t be here,” he whispered.

“And let you suffer alone?” I said softly, brushing a strand of hair from his face. “Not a chance.”

Ardan’s eyes locked onto mine. “Dominic is dangerous, Serena. He’s not just playing games. He’ll kill you if you stand in his way.”

“I know the risks,” I replied, squeezing his hand. “But I’m not leaving without you.”

“You’ve always been stubborn,” he murmured as he smiled.

I smiled back. “And you’ve always worried too much.”

His expression grew serious again. “I’m not worried without reason, Serena. This place—it’s...