Page 172 of Barinov

“Figured,” I say jokingly. “Ice Queen isn’t exactly a term of endearment.”

“Sorry,” she says. “Didn’t mean to be disrespectful.”

“Nah.” I feel a genuine grin tugging at my mouth. “It’s hilarious. Hell, we’ve all called her worse. Cade’s sister calls her the Ice Bitch Witch of Moscow.”

Luciana snorts. “Sorry.”

“I love my mom, don’t get me wrong. But she can be a raging bitch when she wants to be.”

“Still.” She grins back. “I probably shouldn’t have said it.”

We sit there for a moment, just drinking.

“You should get some sleep,” she says, setting her mug into the sink. “We both should.”

Chapter 44

LEX

The Colosseum - Rome, Italy

Luca’s version of The Blackout.

66 days since Bella’s kidnapping

The cool breeze bites at my cheeks as we step into the looming shadow of The Colosseum. It reeks of old dust, but I try not to focus on that shit. Right at the mouth of the beast, a giant display of my ruin sits on an old stone ledge.

A red skull Hollow Kings mask.

A pistol.

And one of those goddamn collars.

“I hate this,” Cade whispers. His grip on my hand is so tight I can feel his pulse jumping against my skin.

“Me too,” I mutter.

DING.

The screen bleeds light into the dark as I yank it out.

“Here we go.”

@LucaWasHere

Welcome back, my Hollow King, please step into the light.

No shadows left to hide behind, no drugs to blur your sight.

You’ll feel it all so vividly. Each breath and fragile thread.

And I’m afraid this time the fear won’t only live inside your head.

My collar is waiting patiently. Polished, prim, and neat.

A perfect little halo meant for someone soft and sweet.

Not yours to wear nor yours to bear. No this one’s not for you.