Chapter 26 · The Enforcer Says No

“Don’t move. Not a single inch.”

Cyrus didn’t scream it. He purred. He was too close—I could smell the sterile metal and expensive ozone clinging to his suit. He looked like a savior, but the needle in his hand said otherwise.

I scrambled back, my boots skidding on the slick floor of the Core Room. Kael was right there, slumped against the humming machinery. His chest barely moved. He looked hollow, like someone had reached inside and scooped out everything human.

“The Ledger is clear, Mara,” Cyrus whispered, stepping over Kael’s motionless arm. “Save him, and you become my puppet. Walk away with the proof, and he dies in ten minutes. Simple math.”

“Go to hell,” I spat. My throat felt like I’d swallowed broken glass.

“I’m already there. I just own the lease.” He leaned in, the needle glinting. “Choose. Now.”

I looked at Kael. His skin was gray. A vein in his neck pulsed with a sickly, flickering light. The Black Ledger Bond throbbed against my skin—a hot, searing brand. Every time Kael’s heart skipped, I felt a tug in my own gut.

I didn't choose. I lunged.

I didn't have my full power, but I had desperation.