#Chapter 105: Assassination and Forced Partnership

Aurora's POV The attack came at dawn, when the stronghold's security was transitioning between night and day shifts. Professional killers moved through corridors with lethal precision, their target unmistakably clear—me. I woke to the sound of breaking glass as my window exploded inward. Dark-clad figures poured through the opening with military efficiency, silver blades glinting in early morning light. Training kicked in before conscious thought. I rolled from my bed, grabbing the ceremonial dagger from my nightstand as the first assassin lunged toward me. The blade bit deep into my shoulder as I twisted away, silver burning through my system like acid. But my counterattack found its mark, and the assassin staggered backward with my dagger buried between his ribs. Kane appeared in my doorway like avenging fury, his own weapons drawn and his face a mask of lethal focus. Whatever emotional walls he'd built, my immediate danger shattered them completely. He moved with fluid grace t