However, Seraphina’s blackout was momentary.

At least when consciousness began to seep back in, she only felt the sensation of being carried down a staircase.

Her ears, still ringing from the blast, struggled to process sounds as she slowly opened her eyes to see three burly bodyguards attempting to regain their footing on the stairs, each one moving as if through molasses.

Next thing she knew, she was being hustled out of the building and thrown into a car parked at the curb.

Her head spun, the only coherent thought in her dazed mind—thank goodness.

Thank goodness it was only a stun grenade, designed to disorient and deafen temporarily, not to inflict real harm.

She and the bodyguards were alive, and that was something to be grateful for.

Pinned in the back seat of the car, it took some time before Seraphina’s senses fully returned.

Besides the driver, there were two others—one in the passenger seat and one beside her.

No one spoke; the car was silent except for the sound of breathing.

It wasn’t until much later that Seraphina managed to croak out, “Who are you guys?”

No answer came.

all this for? Money,

Silence persisted.

on, fellas, you don’t have to be so icy. I’m already in your hands. You might as well clue me in.

keep quiet and you’ll be fine,” the man beside her finally

sit up?” Seraphina was still sprawled in the back seat. “Sitting like this, I’m getting carsick. I’m about to throw

all you

at his words. From this exchange, it was clear these men

to imply they were after her life. But why should she

began to struggle, trying to sit up

man beside her kicked her legs harshly, his voice cold with threat, “Stop

through her,

back. The man beside

replied, “I just wanted to remind you not to leave too many marks on her. It’ll

What did he

people intended to leave

such a commotion to have her dead, but still they planned to leave her body intact. What was the

the larger goal might involve her body’s use for something else. And what use could a dead person

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