Soraya's POV
The hum of the engine filled the silence between us, low and constant like a heartbeat. Outside, the Silverfang forests stretched endlessly, their shadows slicing across the car windows as we drove.
Ares, who had been quiet since we drove off finally spoke.
"You know," he began, his tone light but edged with something sharp, "I understand why you hate Ethan, Soraya. I would too, if I were you."
My gaze shifted toward him, but he didn't look back. His fingers drummed lazily on the wheel, his voice steady, almost casual.
"He's reckless," Ares continued. "Always has been. It's too bad, really. First, he cursed you—then nearly sacrificed you because of it. And now?" He scoffed. "Now he denies your freedom, all for his ambition to rule. And somehow, he still claims he loves you and cares about you."
I studied him for a moment, then looked forward again, refusing to take the bait. As if that's not your ambition too.
