Rue’s POV

Across the room, Aiden still stood as if the floor was holding him in place. Haven’s posture, by contrast, was alert. Her gaze darted between me and Aiden.

I had known this confrontation would come. I simply hadn’t known it would be public.

Reporters, invited under the pretense of covering the CDC negotiations, had instantly caught the shift in atmosphere.

They approached like predators scenting blood.

“Ms….” one began, hesitating over my name as though unsure which ...