CRYSTAL

“Take it off.”

A single command, final and absolute.

My hand froze midair.

My heart slammed against my ribs, pounding so violently I could hear it roaring in my ears.

There was no pretending I hadn’t heard her, no way to dodge the order without sealing my own fate.

Winter watched me in silence, her gaze steady and knowing. She already knew I would obey.

What other choice did I have? Refusing would only confirm her suspicions. It would expose me for exactly what I ...