Chapter 5

A wet cough burst from Arcas.

Above the cliff, he went suddenly rigid while still holding Isabella and murmuring comfort.

His face drained of all color. Without warning, blood sprayed from his mouth, staining the hem of Isabella's white dress scarlet.

His tall frame swayed violently, and he dropped to one knee. His sword clattered to the ground.

"Arcas, what's happening to you?" Isabella screamed and reached for him, but his scent erupted in a violent, razor-edged wave that hurled her back.

"Get back!" Arcas clutched his chest, ice-blue wolf eyes wide with disbelief, shock, and raw agony.

Pain tore…