Nina

I waited until Scarlett’s footsteps faded before letting the trembling in my hands cease. The frightened, traumatized sister’s act dropped away like a discarded cloak, replaced by a smile that would have shocked my dear, protective sister to her core.

Jack’s familiar scent reached me before he slipped through the medical wing’s window, moving with the silent grace that had made him such a valuable ally. “Ever the convincing actress,” he murmured, pulling me into his arms.

I laughed softly against his chest. “You should have seen her face when I clutched her dress, begging her to believe me about the sister bond.” My fingers traced patterns on his...