Chapter 17

I woke up dazed and confused, not knowing where I was or what had happened. My dreams had been plagued with visions of demons and monsters, ready to capture me and punish me for my crimes - subconsciously I knew this was a warning from the Moon Goddess.

It was only the steady pressure on my hip that brought me back into the present as I blinked, trying to take in my surroundings, eventually focusing on the soft, perfect face of Duke

He was leaning on his elbow, his hand propping his head up at the temples, his other hand wrapped around my hip, keeping me close to him. There was a look of concern on his face and a gentleness in his eyes.

It was true then. My father was dead. I wondered how much he knew at this point. Did he know I was responsible? Much of the night felt like a blur to me although I could vaguely recall Duke caring for me, treating me so gentle as though I was made of glass and the slightest knock would shatter me forever

He didn't know the