A Partial Admission
"I'm sorry, Mr. Northvale," Agent D's voice was frigid, devoid of the usual protective warmth he showed Cassian. The tactical pistol in his hand pressed cold against Cassian's temple, while Mrs. North stood on the other side of the elevator, her face taut. "This is North Council security protocol. You've attracted far too much public attention."
"The North Council? You work for Elara?" Cassian held his breath, realizing the trap was far more elaborate than he'd imagined. They weren't just monitoring the Coven; they had been watching him since the very start.
Mrs. North let out a long sigh, her eyes reflecting clear internal conflict. "This is for your safety, Cassian. And to maintain your cover with Lianna. If they knew you were Mr. North, Valerian would be crippled,
