Bealith smiled softly. “I am telling you this because I believe you have a chance at breaking this cycle of abuse and despair. Most demons who claim a mate will walk through fire to keep her, but the one who brought you here? He sacrificed his own needs for your benefit—no one’s ever thought these beasts were capable of selfless love, but this might be proof that the seed is in there. If you can nurture it and spread it to your children… my daughter, you could be the catalyst who finally defeats evil.”

Selma’s mouth dropped open. “Whoa there! Kain was capable of love from when he was a child. I have nothing to do with that—and I think love is a fairly strong word for what’s between us! We’re doped up on each other’s pheromones, and he’s a good guy. That’s why he’s helping me.

“As for this catalyst nonsense? If what you’ve told me is true, then I’ve had quite enough of being a tool for gods to play with. All I want is to live in peace!”

To her frustration, all her minor rant got her was a chuckle from the glowing woman in front of her.

“My dear, you’re the only woman in history to call a demon a ‘good guy’ while knowing his true nature. Even Breeders who grow content with their fate would never claim he is good. That guy on the other side of this shield has crushed many humans' lives—it’s in his very nature. Yet you see kindness where others see evil.

“Deny your heart if you wish, my daughter. When you have given birth to the demon in your womb, you will be able to live behind my walls—assuming you wish to turn your back on your mate and his son.

“But if you don’t—if you can find it in your heart to nurture the love and gentleness within them both—then no one’s to say that you cannot have the peaceful life you desire, along with helping light spread throughout a race that’s been ruled by darkness since the very beginning. The choice is yours.”

With a final glance in Selma’s direction, Bealith got up and turned to the wall, looking at the demon glaring at them.

“I can tell you that love is the way to connect to the power you were meant to have. You are so much more than a Breeder, so much more than a damaged woman defined by the monsters who want to use you. It’s up to you if you want to take that power.”