The Shifter's eyes narrowed. "That so?"
Lucas nodded casually. "Mm. But it's cute that you thought otherwise."
The Shifter exhaled sharply, expression cooling. "You really think you can hold onto it? You might've carved out a nice little empire in the lower levels, Bai, but Level One isn't so forgiving."
Lucas grinned, all sharp amusement. "Neither am I."
The Shifter leaned back, studying him. "So this is what you came here for? To show your teeth?"
Lucas chuckled. "No. I came here to remind you that I have teeth."
The Shifter's grin was gone.
Ava watched as he leaned back, eyes flicking over Lucas like he was seeing him for the first time.
Because Lucas Bai wasn't supposed to be a problem.
He wasn't supposed to be a player.
Yet here he was, smiling like he already owned the board.
The Shifter exhaled, slow and measured. "You're making enemies, Bai."
Lucas tilted his head. "So are you."
The room went still.
