Chapter 7 · Who Lit the Black Fire

The key was still warm.

Evelyn turned it over in her palm. Blood had pooled in the grooves of the brass teeth, fresh enough that it smeared when her thumb brushed the edge. Whoever dropped this had been inside the Kade estate minutes ago. Maybe less.

Nolan stared at it like it might bite him.

"Your father's study," Evelyn said. Not a question.

He nodded once. His jaw was locked so tight she could see the muscle jump.

Mara circled back toward them, one hand pressed to her side where the bandage was already seeping red again. "We need to move. Someone just gave us an invitation, and I don't think they're the kind who waits for an RSVP."

"It's a trap," Nolan said flatly.

"Obviously." Mara's tone was sharp enough to cut. "But it's also the only lead we've got that isn't two days old or covered in Silas's fingerprints. So unless you've got a better idea, I suggest we take the bait and see who's holding the hook."

Evelyn closed her fist around the key. The metal bit into her palm. "What's in the study?"

Nolan didn't answer right away.