When Elrien returned, the chamber was empty. He stood in the doorway, his dark eyes sweeping across the space where Yuta should have been.
There was no trace of lavender lingering in the air. No smell of orchids, or those expressive eyes gazing up at him.
Elrien's jaw tightened as something cold settled in his chest.
He had told him to return here!
Footsteps echoed behind him and Elrien turned just in time, but it wasn't the face he'd expected to see.
Giyu appeared, bowing deeply, followed by a demoness whose body trembled as she carried a small covered box.
Her face was pale, sweat beading on her forehead despite the cool air as she prostrated before the dark Lord.
"My Lord," the demoness began, her voice shaking. "Your attendant requested this transaction. I didn't dare take it!"
