Chapter 167Joe's POV"You're mine, Lily. I'll burn the world before I lose you again."
The words left my lips like a vow, a curse and a prayer in one breath. Her head rolled weakly against my arm, her skin ice cold. I could barely feel her pulse anymore, just a faint flutter beneath my thumb.
I stumbled through the palace halls, blood dripping from my claws, the scent of death following me like a shadow. The corridors were already in chaos, warriors shouting, alarms echoing but all I could hear was her fading heartbeat.
"Stay with me," I whispered against her ear, my voice breaking. "Please, baby, stay with me."
No response. Her lips are pale, her body limp. My chest tightened with dread. She's lost too much blood. Every second that passed felt like sand slipping through my fingers… slipping her through my fingers.
"You can't die," I murmured , brushing my thumb across her cheek. "Not after everything. Not after I finally have you for myself."
