Chapter 7

When I woke up, I was in an extremely strange place—a castle with Renaissance decor. And my wrists were tightly bound. Abel walked in with food. “Simon, eat something.” He wore black, his sharp face lacking his usual smile—cold, fierce. No one changes that much in a short time, let alone has an elite team. This must be the real him. “When did you build an army like that?” “Is that so hard? It's just my brother never truly understands me.” Abel set the food down, slowly crouching beside me. “Only if I hold power can you stay with me forever. No one will take you away.” I sighed deeply. “Abel, no one’s taking me. I’ll stay with you. Always.” “Simon, you’re still lying!” He grabbed my wrist. “If I’d been a minute late, you’d be engaged to someone else!” “It’s not what you think…” Abel suddenly kissed me hard. Like revenge, he bit my tongue until blood filled my mouth. “It’s okay. Everyone who hurt you is punished. Now, stay with me, please? I want you to meet some