Chapter 8

Caleb returned to the Old Keep earlier than expected after handling an emergency at the borders of his territory. The night was deep, and the fortress was unusually quiet, save for the occasional crackling of the firewood in the hearth. Without thinking, his feet carried him toward Leah’s room, the place where her calming presence always soothed the bloodline frenzy that stirred within him after long days of exertion. But her room was empty. The bed was neat and cold, showing no sign of recent...