Bruised Truths

Vivienne’s POV

My steps quickened, echoing off the floor until I reached the heavy double doors of Valentin’s study. Without pausing to knock, I shoved one open and stepped inside.

Valentin was leaning against his desk facing the door, shirt discarded, the harsh glow of the lamp cutting across his frame. A thick white plaster was on his left side close to his navel. My stomach dropped. His knuckle