Miriam tried to back up as he advanced, resisting his hold. She struggled as he turned her back to him, grabbing her hair and pushing it aside to bare her neck.
With sick horror, I realized what he was doing.“Liam.”
“It’s this or death,” Liam said.
“You’re not going to accomplish anything. She’s too powerful a witch for Anton to influence,” I said.
“We’ll see.”
I started forward, to do what I wasn’t entirely sure.
“Daniel,” Liam said, command in his voice.
“Yes, my lord.” Daniel dipped his head and caught me by the arm, pulling me out of the room and away from whatI’d caused.
*
I sat with my back against the wall, waiting. Daniel had made it clear when I tried to leave that I wasn’t going anywhere.
I pulled out the note Cadell had given me during the party. All it said was“Meet us at the apartment. Come alone.”
That wasn’t vague or anything. I balled up the paper and slipped it into the dress. Cadell could have been slightly helpful and at least given me something to go on.
I’d already decided to track them down. The note was just a risk without a lot of payoff.
It didn’t take long for Anton to finish his feeding. I watched as he helped Miriam out of the room, supporting her weight as he guided her down the hall.
Liam stepped out next, his thoughts veiled.
“What will happen to her now?” I asked.
“She will remain with us while Anton completes the bond,” he said.
“And if it doesn’t take?”
“I’ll order her death.”
I shook my head, anger and sorrow tangling inside me, leaving me with the bitter taste of defeat.
Things had seemed so easy earlier tonight. Help Liam figure out who was trying to kill us and make them pay. Now, I was party to my worst nightmare.
I stood.“I’m going home.”
I needed space and time to process. Not to mention there were a couple of High Fae waiting on me.
“You’re not.” The words were a whip.
“Oh? Did you become my keeper while I wasn’t looking?” I asked, acid in my voice.“Dawn will be soon. I plan to spend it in my bed.”
“Think again,macushla. You’re not leaving my sight until this is over.” There was no softness in his expression. He meant that. He had no intention of giving me space.
A strangled sound left me.“I have an errand to run.”
He remained unmoved.“Then we’ll run it together.”
He didn’t give me time to argue, glancing at Daniel.“Watch her. I have something to take care of.”
Daniel nodded, moving closer as if his presence alone could keep me there.
