Chapter 345. Taking His Place

Aurora’s POV

“Ashton...” my voice slipped out before I even knew it had formed. Everything was still, like even the air itself was holding its breath. He stopped mid--chant, his lips curling into that eerie half--smile as he turned his head toward me.

“What did you just say?” His tone was sharp, dangerous, like a knife pressed to the edge of my throat.

I stepped forward, my heart hammering but my voice steady. “I said... I’ll do it. Take me instead. Let Riley go, and I’ll be your new vessel.”

Ashton frowned, but didn’t say anything; just studied me as if trying to determine if I was bluffing.

“You don’t want him,” I pressed on, ignoring the sting in my chest at Riley’s writhing form. “He’s just a child...weak, powerless. I’m not. I’m part witch, part priestess. And best of all, I carry Lucas’s blood in my veins. I’m strong enough for what you want. Strong enough to hold your wraith.”

Ashton tilted his head, his eyes glinting with sick amuse