Chapter 257

• Carmen wrenched the blade free. Blood sprayed in a hot arc, the scent of iron thick in the damp night air. Harper’s body convulsed violently, her knees buckling as she sagged toward the grimy ground, nearly losing consciousness.
• With a grip like steel, Carmen fisted Harper’s hair and dragged her step by deliberate step into the shadowed depths of the alley. The darkness there was heavy—like tar, swallowing the pale sliver of moonlight whole.
• Harper’s entire frame trembled as though she’d been plunged into ice water. The arrogance and gloating she’d worn moments earlier had evaporated, leaving only raw fear.