Melrose POV:
I found myself unsettled by the tone of his voice, a subtle inflection that carried an undercurrent of concern as if something was wrong. The mere suggestion was enough to churn my stomach; I had no patience for bad news. My focus was singular: I had to keep Ahknoxi hidden from prying eyes until I could figure out how to get rid of her for good. I had already slipped up twice in less than 24 hours, allowing her to emerge, and I knew that wasn’t a good sign.
“What is it?" I asked, glancing between them.
Seeing them frozen, like deer caught in headlights, was unnerving. Their eyes were wide and filled with emotions—guilt, fear, concern—and it all felt overwhelming.
Nope, I thought decisively, I don't want to do this. I had finally found a semblance of peace within myself
