The city did not sleep that night.Braxton Tower glowed against the dark sky like a wounded giant,lights burning on every floor, drones cutting silent paths through the air, guards posted at every entrance. Inside, tension pressed down on everyone like a held breath that refused to release.In the high-level medical bay, machines hummed steadily around Mila Braxton’s still form. Clear tubes ran from her arms, soft lights blinking in careful rhythm. She looked peaceful, almost like she was asleep after a long day.But Ethan knew better.He stood just outside the glass wall, staring at her, fists clenched at his sides. Every beat of his heart felt like an accusation.This is because of me.Leanna stood beside him, silent, watching his reflection more than the girl in the bed. She saw the storm building in him….the same storm she’d seen before battles, before impossible decisions.Victor broke the silence first.“We don’t follow his rules,” he said flatly. “We never do.”Ethan didn’t loo

The containment field around Mila hummed softly, a low, steady sound that cut into Ethan’s chest like a blade. The light inside the chamber cast her face in pale blue, making her look smaller, younger,fragile in a way she had never been before.Ethan took one step toward her.The hum deepened.Korrin raised a single finger.“Careful,” he said lightly. “That field responds to motion,even your concern is dangerous.”Ethan stopped immediately, muscles locked, jaw tight.“You said you’d keep her alive,” Ethan said. “That’s your promise.”“And I am,” Korrin replied calmly. “For now.”He walked in a slow circle around Ethan, boots echoing against the cracked stone floor.“You know,” Korrin continued, “people assume I want revenge,blood,chaos,power.”He laughed softly. “That’s too simple.”Ethan followed him with his eyes, refusing to turn his back.“So what do you want?” Ethan demanded. “Money? Control? Say it.”Korrin stopped directly in front of him.“I want you,” he said.Ethan’s breath