POV: Thelma

The arena was a circle of ancient stones, each one carved with runes that glowed in the gathering darkness. Magic crackled in the air, creating an invisible barrier that sealed us inside. No one could interfere. No one could help.

I stood at the edge with Theo, both of us forced to watch as others fought for our freedom. My hands were clenched so tight my nails drew blood from my palms.

Xavier stood on the opposite side of the arena with Luna and Kael, all three preparing for battle. He looked across at me one last time, and even without our mate bond fully intact, I felt...