Chapter 39 · The platform split open. A narrow stairwell dropped

The platform split open.

A narrow stairwell dropped into the gate chamber, lit by a sickly violet glow. The rift fuel beneath them was already moving. Pipes shook along the walls, pushing black-blue liquid toward the central ignition well.

Kade grabbed Evelyn’s hand.

“Move.”

She pulled back. “The line.”

“I’ll start it.”

“No. You can’t read the gate and handle the fuel.”

“I can if you stop arguing.”

“I’m not leaving you alone with a machine that may have your name written all over it.”

“Then come with me.”

The words landed between them.

Forced proximity wasn’t new anymore. Their bond had made sure of that. But Kade saying it like a choice made her chest tighten.

The lower tunnel filled with boots.

A Crown officer shouted, “Mercer! Remove the mask and kneel!”

Kade looked down at Evelyn’s hand in his.

Then he looked at her.

“They’ll kill you first,” he said.

“Let them try.”

“They won’t try. They’ll use your brother.”

That was the one thing he could say that cut through every defense.

Evelyn stepped onto the stairs.

Kade followed, still holding her hand.

The door sealed behind them as a burst of Crown fire struck the platform.