Chapter 30 · Lethal Resonance

"Get away from the door, Ivy. Now."

Cain’s voice didn't just echo; it vibrated in my teeth. I didn't budge. I kept my palm flat against the cold iron lock, feeling the purple energy still humming under my skin. My heart was a trapped bird, slamming against my ribs.

"You locked me in here like a dog," I spat.

I looked back. He was leaning against the stone archway, a jagged silhouette in the dim torchlight. He looked bored. But his eyes? They were locked on the violet glow clinging to my fingertips.

"I locked you in so you wouldn't burn the palace down in a temper tantrum," he countered.

Click. Click. Click.

His boots hit the stone like a countdown.

"That show with the bookshelves? Impressive. Dangerous. And completely out of your control."

"I can handle it," I lied. My voice shook. The power felt like a starving animal clawing at my veins.

"Can you?"

Suddenly, he was there. His chest nearly brushed my shoulder. Cedar and ozone. He didn't touch me, but the heat radiating off him turned the chilled basement air electric.

"Your hands are shaking, Ivy. You're terrified of what's inside you.