Chapter 21 · Let him go

Julian's grip loosened by a fraction.

Kael used it. He stepped into the narrow space between Julian and the pillar, close enough that Julian's breath brushed his cheek. The cold from Julian's body cut through Kael's shirt. Beneath it, the strange ringing pulsed against the air.

"Let him go," Kael said again, quieter. "Or your chest is going to lock."

Julian's eyes stayed on his. "You think you can control me?"

"No. I think I can keep you alive long enough to make you regret being difficult."

"That sounds like control."

"Then call it a bad habit."

Julian stared at him. His thumb shifted against the broken cuff. The movement brought their hands together, skin against skin. Kael felt the chill of his fingers and the faint tremor he was trying to hide.

"You stole the sample for yourself," Julian said.

"I stole it because you need a cure."

"That's not what I asked."

Kael's pulse jumped. "You don't get every answer just because you own my contract."

Julian leaned closer. "I own your contract because Silas owns your death sentence."

"And you call that saving me?"

"It is."

"You chained me to your table.