Chapter 17

 My hands shook as I hid in the shadows, gripping the small vial my father had entrusted to me. The liquid inside was thick and murky, swirling in a way that made me feel queasy. This was the cure Alec had promised, the one that could rescue Lucien from death's grasp. But the price... The price was almost too much to bear.

I'd agreed to take it, but every part of me was fighting against it. I wasn't just saving Lucien's life—I was tying myself to Alec forever. If Lucien ever learned the truth, he'd never forgive me. Yet, I had no other choice.  Lucien's condition was deteriorating, and without the remedy, he would not survive until morning. 

I took a deep breath, attempting to steady my nerves. There was no opportunity for remorse or hesitation. Lucien needed me, and I couldn't let him slip away. Not like this.