Chapter 18 · The Memory Bleed

"Don't move. Not a single inch."

Serra’s voice wasn't loud, but it cut through the vault like a razor. She didn't even look at Cade. Her eyes were locked on the center of Lorne's chest, right where the black lock was embedded in her skin.

Lorne tried to step back. Her boots skidded on the cold metal floor. Her heart hammered against her ribs—or maybe it was the lock. It was vibrating, a low, humming frequency that made her teeth ache.

"Get away from her, Serra," Cade spat.

He stepped in front of Lorne, his shoulder brushing hers. He was shaking. Lorne could feel it—a violent tremor that didn't fit the arrogant warden she’d met weeks ago. He looked like a man facing his own executioner.

Serra finally looked at her brother. She smiled. It was the coldest thing Lorne had ever seen.

"Still playing the protector, Cade? How touching. Tell me, does she know what she's actually carrying? Or did you just tell her she's a lucky little lockbreaker?"

"Shut up," Cade snapped.

He reached back, his fingers gripping Lorne's wrist. His palm was searing, squeezing tight enough to leave a bruise. "Lorne, we're leaving. Now.