He turned and walked away, leaving Ivanka alone in the chamber that was meant to mark the beginning of her happiness.
Ivanka stood unmoving.
For the first time, she truly understood the price of the victory she sought and how thin the line was between love, fear, and betrayal.
Elsewhere in Kosler Castle, far from the splendor of the bridal chamber, Demian closed his eyes as the antidote slowly eased the heat in his body. His breathing steadied, the pulse beneath his skin subsided yet his mind grew sharper by the moment.
Something was wrong tonight. Not just the potion. Not just the blatant betrayal.
There was another plan being set in motion.
He opened his eyes, staring at the cold stone wall before him. His jaw tightened.
He might not yet know which pieces were being moved behind these castle walls.
But one thing was certain tonight was not the end of the game.
And this time, he had no intention of being a pawn.
