Pain ripped through the lab before I could even think. Sparks flew, monitors cracked, and a low hum vibrated through the steel floor, like the building itself was alive and angry. My chest tightened, lungs burning. Fear clawed up my throat, sharp and immediate, and pride slammed back just as hard. I had survived worse, but nothing like this.
Vorde’s hand found mine, gripping tight, grounding me. His blue eyes darted around, every flicker betraying terror, trust, and something unspoken, desire, perhaps, or hope. Jealousy twisted through me, bitter and sharp. He shouldn’t have to be here. He shouldn’t have to trust me like this, but he does.
“Veronica.” His voice cracked, ragged. “It’s changing faster than we.”
“Focus!” I snapped, voice raw with panic and determination. My fingers moved o
