Page 115 of Star Claimed Omega
Vargus grinned wider, his eyes now gleaming with manic satisfaction. ‘Too late now, isn’t it? You were so focused on the snarling dog, nobody took note when the ruby fox slipped into the hen house.’
Kaal stiffened. ‘You’re saying this op was just bait?’
Vargus shrugged as best as the restraints allowed, still riding that twisted high. ‘Smoke and mirrors, boys. Sleight of hand.The Widowwas meant to bleed, to be captured. All so she could fly. And glide she will with red wings, slicing through the dark.’
Santi’s heart was thundering now, mind already racing. His eyes snapped to Kaal.
‘We need Miral. Now.’
He turned back to Vargus. ‘Who is the scarlet bird?’
Vargus laughed and leaned his head back against the chair.
His eyes fluttered closed in euphoria, a madman who had delivered his riddle and found peace in the chaos it would bring.
‘All I can say is that she sings, boys,’ he murmured. ‘And when she does, she sets the captives free.’
19
Chapter 19
SOLEIL
Soleil finished wiping down the last mirror in the upper guest cabins.
With a sigh, she stretched, the satisfying crack of her joints sounding through the room.
She packed up and put away her cleaning tools.
Slinging her satchel over one shoulder, she stepped into the hushed hallway leading toward the elevators.
TheSombra’sguestlevel was tranquil at this hour, almost too quiet, and the simulated lighting cast long, sterile shadows across the polished floor.
She was about to press the call panel when movement snagged her attention.
A figure stood at the far end of the corridor.
He was tall. Male, not in uniform.
He was scanning the area with the subtle impatience of someone seeking a specific target. His gaze landed on her, and he relaxedin recognition.
Fokk.
Her breath hitched.
She had no clue who he was.
Still, his energy, his crimson tattoos, and gangster lean raised the hair on the back of her neck.
She turned, hoping to look casual as she diverted her steps down a side hall.
She moved fast, but so did her pursuer.
His footfalls were quicker. He was closing in fast.
‘Don’t,’ she snapped as he caught up to her, reaching to sidestep him.
But his hand latched hard around her forearm and dragged her into the shadowy curve of the corridor.
