EMBER’S POV

He draws his finger across his throat in a slow, deliberate gesture—not bothering to hide it, not caring that people might see. A promise of exactly what’s coming if I lose.

If I’m sent back to him.

Logan stands beside him, and when his eyes meet mine, his expression is cold. He’s already planning the next move. Already figuring out how to ensure the hospital verification goes his way.

Knox’s entire body is poised like a predator about to snap. I grab his arm before he can move, my fingers digging into his bicep hard enough to leave marks.

“Not here,” I breathe. “Not now. We can’t afford...