Page 30 of Taken

Emerson’s lips thin. “We lost control of that subsidiary when Craven Industries executed a hostile takeover of NyxCorp, one of our holding companies. They’ve seized our research and artifacts.”

Interesting. The Cravens not only guard the Heartstone but actively blocked the Syndicate’s attempts to locate the Shard. And Lila’s visions are somehow tied to both.

“I take it recovery is a priority,” I say.

“The highest,” Creed confirms. “Which is why the witch’s cooperation is essential. She’s seen something—someone—connected to both the Heartstone and the Shard.”

The pieces click together in my mind. They suspect there’s someone else—someone Lila is protecting. Someone connected to the Heartstone and possibly the Shard.

“I’ll increase security protocols around her extractions,” I say smoothly, already calculating how to get this information to Viktor. “Perhaps a different approach might yield better results.”

“Just ensure she remains functional,” Creed says dismissively. “And secure. Her schedule will intensify in the coming weeks.”

The implication is clear—they plan to push her harder, risk more damage to extract what she’s protecting.

“Understood.” I exit before my expression can betray my thoughts.

In the empty corridor, I exhale slowly, processing the implications. The Syndicate is hunting for the Heartstone and its missing Shard. And they’re willing to break Lila to find them both.

I need to accelerate my timeline. Need to get her out before they push too far. Before they find the Shard or break her. Or both.

As I round the corner toward the monitoring station, I nearly collide with the object of my thoughts.

Hargen Cole steps back, straightening to his full height. “Sir,” he acknowledges, eyes watchful. “I was just submitting yesterday’s report.”

“Cole.” I nod, studying him with new interest. Not just a handler—a conduit for her power. A defense against the worst of the extraction process. “I’ve been reviewing your procedures.”

“So I’ve heard.” His tone reveals nothing, but tension radiates from him. “The process is delicate. Specialized.”

“Clearly.” I match his careful tone. “I’m particularly interested in this bond of yours. It wasn’t in the standard documentation.”

Something flickers behind his eyes—wariness, perhaps. “It’s tailored specifically to Ms. Ross. One of a kind.”

“Yet remarkably effective.” I step closer, lowering my voice. “Tell me, Cole, what happens during these… bond renewals?”

His jaw tightens almost imperceptibly. “Perhaps you should discuss that with Dr. Emerson. She oversees the technical aspects.”

“I’d rather hear it from you.” I hold his gaze. “Someone who understands the practical application, not just the theory.”

Cole studies me for a long moment, something calculating in his dark eyes.

“The process is… intimate,” he says finally. “Requires trust. Connection. Not something easily explained to an observer.”

The word “intimate” sends a pulse of irrational irritation through me. “I plan to understand, regardless,” I inform him.

“Of course.” His smile doesn’t reach his eyes. “We all want what’s best for Lila, after all.”

Lila?

There’s something beneath his words—a current I can’t quite decipher. His emphasis on her name feels deliberate.

“Her welfare is a priority,” I agree carefully. “Asset preservation ensures continued functionality.”

“Indeed.” He studies me intently. “Though I’ve noticed your definition of preservation seems… personalized.”

Warning bells ring at the edge of my consciousness. “Meaning?”

“Just an observation.” His voice softens slightly. “In my experience, those who show particular interest in Ms. Ross tend to find themselves reassigned. Or worse.”

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