Morning came too fast.
Neither of us slept.
The messages sat between us all night like a loaded weapon.
Every time I closed my eyes, I saw the photograph.
The laboratory.
The crest.
The proof that Project Ledger wasn't dead.
Beside me, Lucien remained awake too.
Not moving.
Not sleeping.
Just listening.
The unnatural stillness of a vampire waiting for danger.
By sunrise, neither of us could pretend rest was an option.
---
Kade met us in the kitchen.
Maya was already arguing.
"No."
"Yes."
"No."
"Absolutely yes."
I poured coffee.
"What's happening?"
Kade pointed at Maya.
"She wants to come."
"I can help."
"You can get kidnapped."
"I got kidn*pped once."
"Exactly."
Maya glared.
Kade didn't look impressed.
"We don't know who's behind this."
"I can handle myself."
