Chapter 9: The Cracks in the Ice

The days after the Conclave were a blur of gray numbness. The manor was silent, the bond a gaping, empty chasm where Kaleb's vibrant presence had once been. I had achieved what I set out to do: I had convinced Lilian, convinced everyone, of my cold-blooded control. There were no more whispers, only wary, respectful glances. I had saved my position, my power, my very life. And I had never felt more dead. The silence from the bond was a physical pain, a constant, aching emptiness in my chest...