Chapter 35 The Mask

• The elevator hums too slow, cheap brass walls throwing back every breath like it’s proof they’re both still alive.
• Ellerei stands at the far corner — hip cocked, blazer still sharp, lips tugged into that flawless I’m fine smirk that doesn’t fool him for a fucking second.
• Knox leans back against the rail — one boot scuffed up, arms folded tight over a chest that won’t stay calm. His jaw ticks every time the car dings down a floor. Too slow. Too close.