Claire's POV

I snatched Elara’s wrist beneath the drape of her arm.

“Listen to me,” I hissed under the cover of my sobs. “Tell them the baby’s heartbeat is gone.”

Her eyes snapped to mine.

“What?”

“It doesn’t mean the kid is dead. Just tell them that. Spook them and wreck their plans. It's our only shot to get out of here.”

“Claire—”

“Trust me.”

I held her gaze, silently pleading.

Elara froze. Hesitation flickered in her eyes. I tightened my grip on her hand, refusing to look away. Finally, she swallowed hard and gave a tiny nod.

A vicious cramp ripped through my gut.

She pressed both hands to...