Through the first half of the day, Stephan barely touched his design mockups.
His mind circled only one thing: How to draw Yennefer out. Where to finish it.
Across the office, Anna Mary turned from her table, her eyes flicking toward him.
For a moment, their gazes locked.
He caught the silent question there:
Are you still in on that deal?
He dipped his head, just enough for her to see. Yes. He understood.
But even as he did, a cold knot formed in his chest. A part of him didn't want Anna Mary involved at all.
"What do you care for her safety?" hissed a darker voice inside. "She didn't notice you. Didn't give a fuck until you were reborn."
Stephan clenched his jaw. Shadows at the edge of his sight seemed to twitch, restless.
"You always like her, Stephan," the voice pressed on, oily and soft. "Nothing's changed. You couldn't have her before… but you can have her now."
His pulse thudded against his throat.
"Kill them both, Yennefer and Anna Mary… otherwise you can't win."
