"The book? The book is what you seek, is it not Lady Reina?" Theodore's voice was mocking now, laced with cruel amusement. He released her hair, letting her fall to the ground in a heap.
Reina's mind raced, her thoughts a chaotic whirl of desperation and dread. She knew the stakes, knew what failing to find the book would mean for her , her Lorcan, and her people, but standing up to Theodore seemed impossible.
She looked up at him, her vision swimming with tears.
The anger in his eyes was terrifying, a reminder of the power he wielded over her. She felt a crushing sense of defeat, a despair that gnawed at her soul.
How could she ever hope to overcome this man who seemed to anticipate her every move, who held her fate in his hands?Reina's lips trembled as she struggled to find her voice.
"The book... it is not here," she whispered, her voice barely audible.
"Of course it is not here, you foolish girl," Theodore frowned.
