LUCIEN'S POV
"Stop acting like an idiot! This isn't the time for games." Lucien pushed against his chest hard. "Listen carefully - I don't trust her just because she's my best friend. I trust her because I know exactly who she is. She would never lie to me so openly. When she says she didn't do it, I believe her completely.
And if you actually loved me, you would believe me too."
Heavy silence stretched between them as both men glared at each other with burning intensity.
Slowly, the fire in their eyes began to fade.
"Tonia is good," Ryder said, shaking his head. "I know that. I actually do like and respect her. But it's difficult when she's the only Siphon we've ever encountered, and she had clear motivation to harm the Luna.
Regardless, I don't see how I can assist you, Lucien. I pledged my allegiance to the King. Helping Tonia escape would be complete treason. I cannot do such a thing."
