Evelina's gut twisted.
Matthew wasn't just stalling—he was genuinely afraid. She could see it in the way his fingers curled against the chair's arms, the way his smirk didn't quite reach his eyes anymore.
Which meant whoever he was protecting was dangerous.
And that made her stomach turn even more.
"Let's make a deal," Matthew finally said with a smirk that didn't quite reach the eyes.
Damian didn't move, didn't blink. His silver eyes stayed locked onto Matthew with a cold, piercing sharpness. "You're in no position to bargain."
Matthew's smirk returned, but it was thinner this time. "And yet, here we are." He leaned forward slightly, lowering his voice. "You want answers? I want something in return."
Evelina tensed. "Which is?"
Matthew exhaled, rolling his shoulders as much as his restraints would allow. Then, with a flicker of amusement, he said, "Protection."
Jasper let out a low whistle, rocking back on his heels. "Well, this just got interesting."
