Page 137 of The Immortal's One
The confirmation that the rebellion was behind the attacks on my life offers zero relief. Thane and Lome often referenced the organization as the orchestrators of my attack. The proof does little good for me now when I’m their prisoner.
But then… theclack clack clackof stilettos against tile taps against my brain.
“Evetta was an Original Nine, and she attacked me,” I point out, twirling the glass stem between my fingers. “Wouldn’t she be a leader in the rebellion?”
“Evetta’s actions were fueled by something beyond righting past wrongs,” he says, undeterred by my attempt to discredit his words. “I’m sorry you were a victim of her jealousy.”
It’s becoming harder for me to see through Adir’s concern. His acting is award-worthy.
“The brothers were using you, Darcie.” He sets his wine on the mantle and pushes off the fireplace. Long legs bring him to stand in front of me. “Thane, Lome, and Des relish being the most powerful Originals. They’d do anything tomaintain their status, including isolating you from the world you know.”
He reaches out and gently traces my cheekbone.
I jerk away from his touch and scowl. “You criticize them, but you are doing the exact same thing.”
He lowers his arm. “You’re right: I do plan on using you for leverage. The difference is…” He drops to the ground, kneeling on one knee, reaching out to capture my hand—the one he nearly crushed at the ball.
I try to pull away, but his grip is unrelenting.
“The difference is,” he repeats, squeezing my fingers, “my motives arepure. I’m not using you for my own selfish gain. Rather, you’ll be helping right wrongs Immortals have suffered for far too long.”
My nostrils flare.
Liar.
“This isn’t my fight.” Once again, I try to free my hand.
Adir holds on and places his other hand on top.
“The brothersmadethis your fight.” He tightens his grip as he emphasizes the word. I wince as my bones rub together. “Whether you like it or not, you’re in this now.”
He leans forward, stopping when he’s only a hair’s breadth away. Fear and disgust war for dominance in my mind.
“The question is,”—his blue eyes flash—“are you going to continue to let the brothers make decisions for you?” His words brush against my cheeks.
I fight the urge to lean away, refusing to show him how afraid I am.
“Or are you going to help us?” His fiery gaze searches mine, glinting with madness. “Help the rebellion, Darcie, and I promise no one will ever attempt to harm you again. You canreturn to your home and live your life as if none of this ever happened.”
He’s lying.
I know it.
I can’t trust the rebellious Immortal as far as I can throw him.
But I can fake it… at least until I find another way to get out of his grasp.
I lick my lips, ignoring the painful grip on my hand, and ask, “What do I have to do?”
“Nothing, darling.” His lips part in triumph. “Absolutely nothing.”
I frown, confused. “Wha—Hey! What are you doing?”
Adir releases my hand and clamps both palms on either side of my face.
I try to pull back, but he’s too strong.
“Thank you for your help, Darcie.” His eyes turn to a shade of aquamarine, and power shoots between his palms, piercing my skull.
