The dock was a storm. Bullets split the air. Men shouted. Blood sprayed the wood. Smoke rolled up like a dark cloud. The sea under them crashed and beat the pillars, loud like drums. The night smelled of gunpowder, salt, and fear.
Aria's ears rang. Her chest felt hot and on fire. The gun in her hand was heavy. She held it tight. Her knuckles were white. The world flashed in pieces , light, shadow, bodies hitting the floor. Sparks flew. Men fell. Men screamed.
Sebastian moved like cold shadow. He stood in the open, calm and perfect. His suit was clean. His face did not shake. He lifted his gun and aimed at her chest.
Aria froze. The bright light hit his face. He looked calm, cruel, and very sure. His mouth made the smallest smile. "I warned you, Aria," he said, soft but hard. "You forgot your place."
The trigger moved.
A loud sound broke out.
