38

Thirty Eight

*Freya*

I stared in disbelief as Zephyr writhed on the floor, groaning in agony. What had just happened? I didn't understand. Two guards rushed in, their armor clanking. They helped Zephyr to his feet.

"What happened, my lord?" one guard asked.

Zephyr pointed a shaky finger at me, a sly smile twisting his lips despite the pain. "The girl...she has a rare gift. The protection gift. Anyone who tries touches her intimately against her will feel unbearable pain."

My mouth fell open in shock at his words. A protection gift? Me? Zephyr's words reverberated in my mind. So that's why he had collapsed the moment he tried to force himself on me. As the truth sank in, a rush of excitement filled me. I wasn't just some helpless girl anymore. I had power. Something unique and precious. For the first time, I didn't feel afraid or vulnerable. I felt strong.

Giddy with happiness, I leaped to my feet and made a dash for the door. Freedom was so close! But the guards moved to block my pa