Chapter 107

Damiano

“How come you want to train me all of a sudden? You didn’t seem too happy when Arianna wanted to train me.” Althaia asked as we drove.

“I know. Arianna suggested training you after the night of the auction, but I was stubborn, thinking I could always protect you. I had to face the reality that I can’t control everything. Training you will make me feel at ease that you know how to defend yourself and stand a chance.”

That night in the woods haunted me for weeks. The sight of her lifeless body against mine, the flow of blood between her legs — it all felt too familiar and paralyzed me on the spot.

I feared she wouldn’t wake up and die in my arms, just like Sienna did. Clinging tightly to her, I resisted letting go or allowing anyone else near as I shook her awake, but her eyes remained closed. The only thing that kept me somewhat sane was when I felt her pulse.

Althaia’s touch on my hand brought me back to reality, making me relea