Page 14 of Demon's Dark Love

Griselda's gaze flicks to me, then back to him. "And why is the human with you?"

"I needed an extra pair of eyes," he says, not missing a beat. "She has a knack for noticing things others don't."

Griselda snorts, clearly unconvinced. "Just make sure you don't get too comfortable, human. Your place is in the kitchens, not wandering the halls."

I nod, keeping my expression neutral. "I'm on my way from there to my chambers, Griselda."

She gives us one last suspicious look before turning and walking away, her footsteps echoing down the corridor.

"We need to be more careful," I say once she's out of earshot.

Enoch nods, frowning.

We part at my chamber door, our fingers lingering until at last he turns and ascends the stairs.

The castle settles around us, quiet, still, and waiting.

6

ENOCH

Bethana’s study reeks of incense and power. Her golden eyes, piercing and unyielding, fix on me as I enter.

"Enoch," she begins, not looking up from her ancient book. "I’ve found a suitable match for you."

"Mother, I don’t need?—"

"Nonsense," she cuts me off, snapping the book shut, dust erupting from its pages. "An opportunity has presented itself that we can’t miss. You’ll meet her at the ball we are throwing."

I grind my teeth, trying to keep my voice steady. "Who?"

"Vespera," she says with a smile that could slice through steel. "Daughter of Lord Draven."

"Vespera?" My stomach churns. Vespera is known for her cruelty, her manipulative nature. She’s a perfect puppet for my mother.

Bethana’s gaze sharpens. "This union will benefit both of our families. Your offspring will be powerful."

I nod.

She stands, moving towards me with the grace of a predator. Her fingers brush against my arm, and she freezes, her eyesnarrowing. "What is this?" she demands, pointing to a lighter patch on my skin, shimmering faintly.

I glance down, my heart skipping a beat. It’s where Lily touched me, her warmth lingering like a brand.

"It’s nothing," I lie, forcing a smirk. "Just a minor burn from practicing fire magic."

Bethana’s eyes bore into mine, searching for deceit. "You should take better care of yourself, Enoch."

"Won’t that be what my future wife’s duties will entail?"

Her hand lingers on my arm for a moment longer, then she steps back, her eyes calculating. "Good. You’re accepting of the match."

I turn to leave, my mind racing. Vespera. Of all demons, she’s the one my mother chooses. She’ll bend to Bethana’s will without question, a perfect pawn. But Lily’s touch still tingles on my skin.

As I walk through the castle corridors, I catch snippets of conversation. Servants whispering about a grand ball being prepared. The air buzzes with anticipation, but all I feel is dread.

I find a secluded alcove and lean against the cold, black stone, closing my eyes. Lily’s face swims into view, her bright eyes full of determination.

The thought of her, of her touch, gives me strength.I push off the wall, determination flooding my veins. I need to see Lily.

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