Chapter 18

Aria

I wake with a start, my heart pounding in my chest as a sense of unease washes over me. The events of the previous day come rushing back - the confrontation with Callum, the weight of the prophecy bearing down on my shoulders.

I dress quickly, my hands shaking as I fumble with the fastenings of my tunic. I need answers, need to find a way to unravel the tangled web of secrets and lies that surround my unborn child.

But as I step out of my room, I find Elijah waiting for me. His expression is grim, his arms crossed over his broad chest. The air around him crackles with barely suppressed anger.

"We need to talk," he says, his voice low and controlled. "About your little visit to the dungeons."

I freeze, my heart stuttering in my chest. How does he know? I thought I had been so careful, so discreet.

"Elijah, I can explain," I start, but he cuts me off with a sharp gesture.

"Explain what? How you went behind my back? How you put yourself and our child at risk by confronting that madm