Chapter 23 · Sweet Poison

"Let her go, Kane. You’re shaking."

Silas’s voice dripped with that fake, polished concern that made my skin crawl. He didn't move closer. He didn't need to. He just leaned against the marble pillar, tossing a small, iridescent vial from hand to hand. The liquid inside shimmered like crushed pearls.

Kane didn't answer. He didn't even look at him. His hand was still clamped around my wrist, fingers digging into my skin. Heat radiated off him in waves—the kind of heat that comes right before a forest fire. His chest heaved, his breath hot against my ear.

"You’re not taking her anywhere," Kane growled. It wasn't a human sound. It was a vibration that rattled my teeth.

"Now, why not?" Silas smirked, stepping forward. *Click. Click.* His boots on the polished floor sounded like a countdown. "She’s a tool, Kane. A broken, worthless little thing that happens to have the right blood. You’re just using her as a drug. A little hit of Elara to keep the monster in the basement quiet. Pathetic, really."

I yanked my arm. Kane only tightened his grip, hauling me flush against his side. He smelled of smoke and cold metal.

"Get out," Kane snapped.