Chapter 120

Ardan’s hands were warm and I hadn’t realised that I longed for his touch ever since. “You shouldn’t be here,” he whispered. “And let you suffer alone?” I said softly, brushing a strand of hair from his face. “Not a chance.” Ardan’s eyes locked onto mine. “Dominic is dangerous, Serena. He’s not just playing games. He’ll kill you if you stand in his way.” “I know the risks,” I replied, squeezing his hand. “But I’m not leaving without you.” “You’ve always been stubborn,” he murmured as he smiled. I smiled back. “And you’ve always worried too much.” His expression grew serious again. “I’m not worried without reason, Serena. This place—it’s crawling with Dominic’s loyalists. And Sylvia…” He paused. “She’s just as dangerous in her own way.” “She’s harmless,” I said dismissively, though I couldn’t deny the sharp anger her name brought. “And Dominic won’t touch me. He needs me to keep his disguise intact.” “For now,” Ardan countered. “But the moment he decides you’re more trouble than you’re