Page 158 of Axis of Fire

Lars studied her for several long seconds.

Then looked back at me.

“Why don't I believe either of you?”

“That sounds like a personal problem,” Gwen replied with a shrug.

I almost laughed.

Almost.

“What did you find?”

Tarven extended his hand.

I tossed him the brooch.

It sailed across the pool and landed neatly in his palm.

He barely glanced at it.

Then scoffed.

“That's Moss's team crest.”

The words made my stomach tighten.

So whoever had left the brooch wanted us to think Harold Moss was responsible.

Or wanted us to think he wanted us to think that.

“Fine.”

Tarven slipped the brooch into his pocket.

“We'll discuss all of this with Airis in the morning before I return to Vuduarus.”

His gaze settled on me.

Sharp.

Assessing.

“He's going to be furious about your little nighttime escape.”

“I'll survive it.”

I tried to sound brave.

Tried to sound unconcerned.

But deep down, I already knew that wasn't what worried me.

What worried me was Lars.

Because even now, he was still watching me.

Not the pool.