Chapter 48 · The Heir's Seal

"Step away from the console, Evelyn. Your little performance is over."

Commander Vale filled the tower doorway, his pistol aimed at my chest.

Behind me, Nora's fingers flew over the broadcast controls. Red lights flashed across the console. One more command, and Mara Vale's testimony would hit every receiver in Rookhaven.

Lucas stepped in front of me.

"Put the gun down."

His father's mouth tightened. "You're still giving orders? After burning your warrant, your command seal, and half the city's legal protection to shield a terrorist?"

"She's not a terrorist."

"She was convicted."

"By a court you own."

The tower went silent.

Lucas's back brushed mine. Heat soaked through his black uniform. His hand reached behind him and closed around my wrist.

Not gentle.

Not hard enough to hurt.

A warning. Maybe a promise.

I leaned toward his shoulder. "If you're planning to die for me, move two inches left. You're blocking the camera."

His fingers tightened. "You're always this charming with a gun pointed at you?"

"Only when the man holding it is your father."

Commander Vale's eyes cut to me. "You think this is funny?"

"No. I think you're scared. There's a difference."

Nora looked over her shoulder.