"Ella?" Anna looked at me with concern. "What's wrong?"
Blackwood.
That name struck like a hammer blow, instantly demolishing every bit of strength I'd built. I was back seven years ago—that helpless orphan girl, bullied, accused, rejected by her mate...
On that land. In Blackwood territory.
"I..." My mouth opened. I wanted to tell Anna I was fine, but the words stuck in my throat.
It can't be him. The North is huge...
But then I caught it.
That scent.
Cedar, whiskey, and something wild. Primal. Cutting through countless perfumes, clear as a warning bell.
Diana erupted inside me. Screaming, roaring, telling me—
"No..." I murmured, instinctively stepping back.
"Ella?" Anna looked confused.
The scent grew stronger. Closer. I turned to run, but my legs felt like lead.
Go! Move now!
Get out of here! You can't be found!
I forced my legs to move and nearly collapsed. Anna caught me. After several wobbles, I managed to steady myself.
"I have to... I have to leave!"
My breathing came in ragged, trembling gasps. I finally regained control of my body and immediately—I took off at nearly a run.
A hand caught my wrist.
Instantly, the touch shot through me like an electric current, igniting every nerve.
No.
I froze in place, unable to turn around.
"Layla..."
That voice came from behind me. Deep, hoarse, with that same magnetic quality from seven years ago, but now edged with urgency.
This day had finally come.
I let out a bitter laugh—at myself, at this damned fate. But I had no choice. For my own sake. For Kai's. I had to face the past. Had to fight.
I closed my eyes, took a deep breath, then slowly turned around.
Black suit. Perfect tie. Long fingers. That same chiseled face, those silver eyes, that presence that made it impossible to breathe—but more mature now. Colder. More dangerous.
Kayden Blackwood.
Chapter Six
