Chapter 49 — The Trap Tightens
Kiera's heart hammered in her chest as Vivienne's shadow lingered in the doorway, the device in her hand blinking faster than a heartbeat. Sparks from the previous blast still floated in the air, and the acrid smell of smoke stung Kiera's nose.
"Kiera…" Vivienne's voice was soft but venomous. "Did you really think you could outsmart me? Outplay me?"
Kiera tightened her grip on Leo. "I don't have to outplay you. I just have to survive you."
Vivienne laughed, a cold, musical sound that made Kiera shiver. "Survive? Oh, little Queen, survival is just the beginning. You've been learning to crawl while I've been mastering the game. And soon… you'll learn that sometimes, you don't get to choose who lives and who dies."
Kade stepped closer, his fists clenched, muscles tense. "Step back, Vivienne. I warned you—don't. Touch. Her."
