Chapter 14 · “I didn’t have time.” “You always have time

“I didn’t have time.”

“You always have time to warn me.”

“You want a countdown?”

“Yes.”

“Fine. Three.”

Kane’s eyes widened. “Wait—”

“Two.”

“Cillian.”

“One.”

Cillian ripped the strand free.

Kane screamed.

The sound tore through Cillian too. His vision shook. He nearly dropped the curse, but Kane’s hand found the back of his neck and held him there.

“Don’t let go,” Kane gasped.

“I’m trying.”

“Try harder.”

“Your favorite line?”

“Apparently.”

Cillian pulled again.

The black strand stretched between them, thin as wire. Every inch came with another wave of pain. His knees pressed against Kane’s. Their coats rubbed together. Kane’s grip stayed at his neck, hot and firm, keeping Cillian upright.

“Tell me what you need,” Kane said.

“Your trust.”

“You don’t have it.”

“Then fake it.”

Kane’s breath shuddered. “I’m not good at fake.”

“Liar.”

“Don’t call me that.”

“You lie every time you pretend you don’t need anyone.”

Kane’s eyes locked on his. “And you lie every time you pretend you don’t want anyone close.”

The curse flared.

Cillian almost lost his grip.

Kane pulled him closer, chest to chest. Their foreheads touched. The contact steadied the resonance.