39. Axel

Axel finds Kat scrubbing the kitchen floor and urges her to rest, confronting their adjustment to life in hiding and his impending loss of Legacy shadows. Kat admits she needs purpose after a lifetime of servitude. They argue gently about safety and isolation in the penthouse, and Axel promises to handle things, though his command unintentionally triggers her ingrained obedience.

Later, Axel discovers Kat’s distress over spilled orange juice and, seeking to comfort her, finally reveals the truth: while captive, he was taken by Bree DelaCrux, the eldest Night Child coven leader, who seeks to rule the Underground and ultimately Devram. Bree courted Axel for an alliance, believing the kingdoms could fracture over Tessa. Axel confesses he returned to Bree after leaving Kat, pretending to consider her House, and warns that his status will change once he loses Legacy power. Kat pushes for cautious freedom within the Underground and urges Axel to define a new path.

Three weeks into the curse, Axel’s transition surges. He writhes with pain and thirst as Tristyn arrives with supplies from Cienna. Tristyn reveals what Kat hid: Axel’s full change will sever their twin-flame bond, and because Kat took the Mark to find him, the ripping will hurt her more.

As Axel’s shadows are torn away, his craving peaks and he nearly lunges for Kat. Tristyn thrusts his own arm forward, and Axel drinks, glimpsing unsettling visions before regaining control. The change completes; Kat’s Mark fades, and both suffer the soul-deep loss of the bond.

Kat collapses in grief, but Axel gathers her close, reassured by the steady heartbeat of their child. He vows, bond or not, to choose her. With Tristyn standing by, the two sit with their heartbreak and cling to each other, determined to face what comes next.