Chapter 9 · Dangerous Resonance

"Don't move a muscle unless you want your heart to stop beating right now," Kael’s voice hissed in my ear, barely an inch from my skin.

I didn't move. I couldn't. His hand was clamped around my wrist, pinning me against the cold metal plating of the server hub, and the pressure was just shy of breaking bone. The air between us smelled like ozone and expensive cologne—a scent that felt like a trap.

"You're shaking, Vesper," he murmured. He didn't sound concerned. He sounded like he was enjoying it. "Is it the adrenaline, or are you finally realizing who owns your leash?"

I glared up at him, my breath coming in jagged hitches. "Go to hell, Kael. I'm not your dog."

"You're exactly what I paid for," he countered, his grip tightening. He leaned in closer, his chest brushing against mine. I could feel the steady, rhythmic thrum of his heart, a stark contrast to the chaotic drumming in my own chest. "And right now, you're malfunctioning. Your genetic resonance is spiking. If we don't stabilize you, you'll burn out your nervous system before the night is over."

I tried to yank my arm away, but he didn't budge.