Chapter 163

Side Story 29.

I turned to look at him, but he didn’t meet my gaze. Instead, he lowered himself and exposed his neck. I let out a small sigh and mirrored the gesture, sealing our bond with a mark that carried no emotion.

After the ceremony, they led me to my room. I stood before the mirror, staring at the mark he had given me. It resembled fire—its shape, its bright red glow.

What a day. Something meant to be joyful had turned into something painfully plain.

“Come in,” I called when I heard a knock.

Randy stepped inside. “Well… uh, congratulations?” he said, sounding unsure as he scratched the back of his head. I studied him for a moment.

“What is it now?” I asked.

He cleared his throat. “Well, I came to tell you that you’ll be sent to t