CH 22
The cold stone walls of the underground chamber seemed to pulse with danger. Every torch flickered violently, casting elongated, dancing shadows that mimicked the tension tightening in Aria’s chest.
Her sister clung to her side, trembling, and Aria’s hand never left Ethan’s. His presence, even bloodied and exhausted, was the anchor she desperately needed.
But the faint whisper of movement in the dark made her heart seize.
Lucas.
Even though Ethan had defeated the guards, the mastermind wasn’t finished. His shadow lingered in the corners of the chamber, calculated, patient, waiting for the exact moment to strike.
Ethan sensed it first. He tensed, his bloodied fists flexing, every muscle coiled.
“Stay behind me,” he whispered, low and urgent.
Aria nodded, her throat tight, eye
