Page 85 of Cursed

“Maybe you’ll be able to keep me safe,” I suggested coyly.

“Maybe.” Bastian studied me, but his expression was exasperatingly unreadable. “If I agree, it won’t come without risks—I want something in return.”

Of course you do.

My stepbrothers were so predictable.

“And I expect you to tell me exactly what you’re planning to do.”

I hadn’t anticipated that.

“Of course,” I replied and forced myself to smile. “I promise to share everything.”

He crossed his arms over his chest and tapped a long finger against his forearm as he contemplated my request. “Fine,” he said. “I suppose I could spare some time to help you... But I’ll want my payment first.”

“Thank you,” I said with sincere relief. “Come after midnight— I’ll be ready for you.” My throat was tight, but the whispers in my mind were full of wicked encouragement. “But don’t— don’t tell anyone. Promise me.”

Bastian nodded, but then he uncrossed his arms and stepped closer. “I’ll promise you this, Avril,” he breathed. “Everything is about to change.” He reached out and pushed his hand into my hair and my breath hissed through my teeth as he tightened his grip and forced my chin to tilt up. “Whether you like it or not.”

I thought he was going to kiss me, and a dark thrill coiled in my stomach. But as quickly as he had grabbed me, he released his hold, and I staggered back.

“Watch the clock, sister,” he said as he turned away. “I won’t be late.”

He walked down the hallway in the opposite direction of the library, and I gritted my teeth in relief.

“You better not be late,” I muttered.

Without a backward glance, I rushed toward the grand staircase.

I was running out of time.

I stood at the window,my arms wrapped around my torso, as I waited for the clock to strike midnight.

The moon was high, and its cold light pierced through the clouds that streaked across the sky and lit the estate’s gardens with a strange light.

Judgemental light.

The grimoire’s whispers were quieter—but not silent. Titus’ power had sated them, but I knew it wouldn’t be long before they clamored for more.

Shadows danced along the walls, but they didn’t frighten me anymore.

Nothing did.

Except Bastian.

He had been the last master of the grimoire—and its magic had left an indelible impression on him. He was Lucian’s protégé… or, at least, that had been his aim.

As Valen and Titus’ magic swirled through me, I saw snatches of their past—but nothing was clear.

Each breath I drew was heavy with dread—and a darkness slithered beneath my skin.

A smile curved over my lips.

Bastian was right about one thing.

Tonight, everything would change.

I glanced over my shoulder toward the edge of my bed, where the dagger lay concealed beneath the damask coverlet. It was as eager as I for the ritual that awaited. I could almost taste the power it promised—sharp and captivating.

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