The bond burned like a brand beneath Lira's skin, a constant reminder of Killian's claim. But pain had always been her best teacher.
She waited until the witching hour—when the moon was shrouded in clouds and the guards at her door slumped in drowsy silence. The bond had been fresh for less than a day, but already she could feel its pull, like a chain yanking at her ribs every time she stepped too far from Killian's scent.
"Not for long," she whispered.
The window of Killian's chambers was barred, but the iron was old, rusted at the hinges. A well-placed kick sent one side groaning loose. Cold night air rushed in, carrying the scent of pine and freedom.
Lira didn't hesitate. She leapt.
---
The forest swallowed her whole.
Branches lashed at her arms as she ran, her bare feet tearing over roots and rocks. She could hear the distant howls of the Bloodmoon patrols, but the bond's tether stretched thinner with every step.
She was going to make it.
Then—
A snarl ripped through the trees behind her.
Lira whirled just in time to see Killian emerge from the shadows, his golden eyes glowing in the dark. He wasn't in wolf form. He didn't need to be.
"Running already, little wolf?" His voice was deceptively calm. "And here I thought you'd at least wait until the blood dried."
Lira bared her teeth. "I'd rather die than sleep another night under your roof."
Killian tilted his head. "Funny. Your body disagrees."
A wave of heat crashed through her—the bond's punishment. Her knees buckled as fire licked up her veins, the magic furious at her defiance. She choked back a scream.
Killian closed the distance in three strides, hauling her up by the throat. "You feel that? That's what happens when you try to leave." His grip tightened. "The bond doesn't just tie you to me. It breaks you for me."
Lira spat in his face.
For a heartbeat, Killian went utterly still. Then his mouth curved into a smile that didn't reach his eyes. "Good. I like my prey with a fight it makes the meal sweeter."