The drive back from the prison was silent, the G-wagon cutting through the city like a shadow. Chloe sat pressed against the leather seat, hands clutched in her lap, her eyes staring blankly out the window. The neon lights flickered against her face, but she barely noticed them. Valerius drove with the precision of a predator, jaw tight, hands steady on the wheel. Lucius lounged beside her, casual as ever, whistling softly, but even his easy tone could not break the tension in the car. Chloe’s chest felt heavy, her mind replaying every detail. Her father, her own blood had used her as bait. And Valerius had delivered justice in a way that left no doubt about the price of betrayal. She had survived, yes, but at what cost? “He’s… gone,” she whispered, almost to herself. “Not gone,” Valerius corrected softly. “Just corrected.” His voice held no malice, only a quiet authority that made her shiver. “You will not be used as a pawn again. That is what matters.” Chloe swallowed hard, try
Last Updated : 2025-09-15 Read more