His hand shot out faster than she could track, gripping her throat with controlled strength. The pressure wasn't tight enough to cut off her air completely, but it wasn't loose either, it was precisely calibrated to remind her of her vulnerability, of how easily he could end her life with a simple squeeze. His amber eyes burned into hers, searching for the fear that had been there three days ago.
He found nothing but cold defiance.
"I'm not afraid of death anymore," Liora said, her voice strained but unwavering despite the hand around her throat. "You already took everything else."
The words hung between them for a heartbeat. Then Liora moved.
