The safe house was quiet. Too quiet.
“Leave her alone, brother.”
Jason’s voice came deep and firm. His tone held no anger, yet it carried the kind of command that made the air tighten.
Ivar turned slowly, eyes narrowing. “Seriously, brother? You’re treating me like this because of her?”
Jason didn’t flinch. “I said, leave her.”
The hall went quiet again. I could hear the sound of my heartbeat. Jason’s eyes, dark and steady, were locked on his brother. For a moment, no one moved. Then, without another word, Ivar gave a low laugh — calm, sharp, and cold.
“As you wish, brother,” he said at last, before turning away. His boots made soft thuds as he left the hall, disappearing into the shadows beyond the doorway.
Jason’s gaze followed him until the last trace of Ivar’s presence faded. Th
