Page 154 of Chandelier Sin

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“You’re from Canada, right?” I began.

“Yes.”

“I adore Canadians,” I said sincerely.

That made her smile.

“How did you get into the States?” A clunky question but there was no time for niceties.

“How do you mean?”

“Did they fly you in?”

She looked nervous. “What’s this about?”

“Please, answer me.”

She frowned with confusion. “OnThe Hades.”

My heart stuttered. That was Lance Merrill’s yacht.

“Did you meet the man who owns it?” I watched her carefully.

She stared at me wide-eyed as though a stark memory had suddenly hit her.

“Inaya, tell me he didn’t hurt you.”

“No.”

“Would you recognize him again?”

“Yes.”

“Have you seen him here?”

An uneasy nod and then a look of disgust.

Jewel had utilized Lance’s yacht. They were connected in more ways than I’d realized, making a dangerous alliance. Perhaps it was Jewel who trafficked them. Lance facilitated her illegal activity by providing a means of getting them in without detection.

I kept my voice soft. “How did you hear about Pendulum?”

Surprise flashed over her. “Why?”

I doubted she’d share more. She looked too scared. Had I missed this look in others? Had I not seen what was right in front of me.

Movement in the doorway.

Atticus’ time in the High Chamber was over. Because it was Jewel standing there proving they’d called an end to the ceremony that hadn’t happened because of the break in protocol.

“Inaya.” Jewel’s tone was intimidating.

I tried to read what might have transpired after I left, tried to interpret her demeanor.

My chest felt so tight I was afraid I’d pass out from the pressure.

Atticus, please be okay.

I hate you for doing this to me—to us.

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