Raven sat beside him, silent. In her eyes was an unspoken plea. She wanted him, more so than he had ever imagined, but she also wanted her freedom, her world. And since he loved her he had to give her up, forever. Twelve men in flowing silk robes marched through the entrance of the chapel, and he knew the time for his decision had come. He took Raven’s cold hand to lead her to the dais, but she pulled him back. “Please, don’t make this decision for me. I know it’s the custom—” “Shh…” he murmured, secure in the knowledge he was doing the right thing. “Everything will be fine.” As they moved forward, the head elder rose to his feet, his white robe flowing behind him. “You have reached a decision, my child?” “Yes, Father.” Devlin stood before the Council, Raven tightly pressed to his side. He had no regrets. “Give Raven her freedom.” She gave a startled gasp.
