Chapter 56 · Noah Isn’t Here

"Noah isn't here."

Carson's face went still.

The judge's mouth tightened. "Careful. Your brother's life is in my hands."

"You just ordered me to kill Carson," I said. "Don't lecture me about gambling with lives."

The throne seal flared beneath the judge's hand.

Stone cracked beside my boot. Blue fire ripped through the floor and slammed into Carson's chest.

He folded with a strangled gasp.

I caught him before he hit the ground.

His fingers locked around my waist. His forehead knocked against mine, and his body shook against me. Every bit of that cold, controlled strength broke apart in violent little tremors.

"Ivy," he rasped. "Don't let it make you choose."

"I'm trying."

"Try harder."

"Shut up."

His breath scraped over my lips. "You hate being told what to do."

"You're flirting with me while the throne is killing you?"

One corner of his mouth lifted.

Then another pulse tore through him, and the almost-smile vanished.

"I married my enemy," he whispered. "I can flirt when I want."

My palm pressed to his chest.