The doctor’s body felt lighter than it should have as I held him upright by the collar, his feet barely steady beneath him. Whatever arrogance had fueled him moments ago had drained away, leaving behind nothing but fear and pain. His breathing was uneven, each inhale sharp and forced, like his ribs protested every movement.
I didn’t loosen my grip.
“Speak,” I said quietly, but there was a weight behind the word that made it sound like a command rather than a request. “Who sent you?”
His lips parted, but no words came out. His eyes flickered—not toward me, but past me.
That was enough.
I followed his gaze.
Behind me, at the doorway, Elizabeth stood clutching Eleanor tightly against her chest, her face pale but resolute. Vinie stood slightly in front of her, his posture tense, like he
