Chapter 28 · Apex Loop: Glitch Evolution - Chapter 28: Puppet's Waltz

"Do not take another step, Kane."

Grimm's claw stopped an inch from my chest.

The tip was sharp enough to punch through my core. I could feel the heat coming off it. I could also feel Grimm behind it, buried under Vivian's control, screaming so hard the sound shook through my bones.

"You keep saying that," I said. "Then you keep getting closer."

Grimm's head tilted. Vivian wore his face badly. His jaw was too loose. His eyes were too calm. She had stolen his body, but she had not learned how he looked at me when he wanted to tear my throat out.

Or when he wanted me to save him.

"You are not in a position to be clever." His voice came out low and rough, but the last word cracked. "The charge beneath this wing detonates in four minutes. Your friend is mine. Your core is exposed. I have both hands on the board."

"You forgot one thing."

"What?"

"You are standing inside my reach."

I lunged.

Grimm's stolen body moved faster. His claw slammed into my shoulder and drove me across the metal floor. My back struck a broken surgical table.