Chapter 45. Jealousy

Ally's POV

The grandeur of the Luparian palace looms before me, a testament to the power and cruelty that resides within its walls. I can feel Dawn's anxiety mirroring my own as we approach, her presence a constant whisper in the back of my mind. The heavy doors swing open with an ominous creak, and it's with a heart leaden like stone that I cross the threshold once again.

"Welcome back, Ally," Nathan's voice slithers through the opulent foyer, his tone dripping with mock warmth. Lucas, lurking in the shadows of his mind, is silent but ever-present – a predator awaiting the moment to pounce. He descends the grand staircase, his steps measured, eyes never leaving mine. It's a predator assessing his prey, and I am all too aware of the game we're about to play.

"Thank you, Nathan." My words are laced with a feigned subservience that makes my skin crawl. I keep my head held high, refusing to let him see the turmoil chur