“Elijah’s gone.”

The words rang in my ears like a gunshot.

I didn’t hesitate. I stormed down the hall barefoot, heart pounding like war drums. Matteo was at my heels, breath ragged.

“When?” I barked.

“Ten minutes ago. Maybe less.”

“Surveillance?”

“Offline. Someone inside knew exactly how to cut the feeds.”

Inside.

It was always someone inside.

I burst into the command room. Luca was already there, shouting orders, his shirt soaked in sweat, eyes glowing like a caged beast.

He turned the moment he saw me.

“Aria—”

“Don’t,” I hissed. “Don’t say a word.”

He stepped closer, but I raised my hand.

“This is on you. Your men. Your...