Chapter 32 · The Broken Bond

"Don't move another inch, Ivy."

Cain’s voice wasn't a request. It was a blade. He had me pinned against the cold stone of the balcony railing, his chest heaving against mine. One hand locked my wrist into the marble; the other gripped my jaw, forcing me to look up into eyes like a storm about to break.

"Get off me," I spat. I jerked away, but he only tightened his hold.

Heat radiated off him. That oppressive, dark energy that always swallowed the air in the room.

"You think a spark of power makes you my equal?" He leaned in. His breath was hot against my ear. "You're still a bird in a cage, little defect. My cage."

"Your cage has a leak," I countered. My voice shook, but I kept it sharp. "And I'm the one who just punched a hole through your security. Maybe you're not as in control as you think."

He let out a low, dangerous chuckle. His thumb traced my lower lip—a gesture that should've been tender, but felt like a threat. The friction sent a jolt straight down my spine. Traitorous. My stomach flipped.

"You're shaking," he whispered. "Is it fear, Ivy?