Chapter 18 · Apex Loop: Glitch Evolution - Chapter 18: Genetic Kiss

"Stop fighting it, Kane. You’re just making the integration sting more," Vivian whispered. Her lips were inches from my ear, her breath a warm, clinical contrast to the freezing metal of the restraint table.

I didn't answer. I couldn't. My jaw was locked, and my veins felt like they were being pumped full of molten glass. I tried to thrash, but the magnetic clamps held my wrists and ankles with a bone-crushing grip.

"Look at me," she commanded.

I shifted my gaze, barely managing to see her. She wasn't wearing the lab coat anymore. Just a silk slip that clung to her, her eyes wide with a mixture of scientific hunger and something that looked dangerously like arousal. She leaned closer, her chest brushing against my arm. I could smell it now—that sharp, metallic scent of the lab mixed with her expensive perfume. It was a sickening, intoxicating blend.

"You’re fighting the admin code," she said, her voice dropping to a low hum. "Why? It’s the only thing that will stop the cellular collapse. I’m giving you the key to the kingdom, and you’re acting like a stray dog with a chew toy."

"Go... to...