Genevieve's POV
My father's voice drifted through the door as he continued his conversation. "I've done extensive research on her bloodline. Her mother lived well into her seventies, but the constant use of her abilities took its toll. The magical drain eventually consumed her from within. That's exactly why I need this girl."
Bianca's response came sharper now, tinged with something close to panic.
"I have no intention of harming her," my father said calmly. "She'll be returned once I complete my observations."
My blood turned to ice.
"Have you completely lost your mind?" Bianca's fury blazed through the phone. "You dragged me into Benedict's war in the first place. Now that we've finally escaped that nightmare, you want to chain me to another one?"
"This benefits you as well."
"Benefits me? Are you hearing yourself?"
Silence stretched between them before my father spoke again, his tone measured and controlled.
