Chapter 16

Dorian looked at Miranda, noting the intense hatred and ruthlessness in her eyes. A flicker of pain crossed his face, but he said nothing to try to stop her. "Miranda," he began, "whatever you choose to do, I'll support you. But—" Dorian reached out and grasped Miranda's right wrist. "These hands of yours were meant to heal and save lives. The blood you've touched is sacred. Leave the dirty work to me. I know you've always hated this side of things, and I'm afraid you'll regret it one day." His words reminded Miranda of the past. The Payne family had originally been citizens of Ekason, but starting with Miranda's grandfather's generation, they had immigrated to Ariston. Miranda's grandfather, Ronald Payne, was ruthless and ambitious, serving as the second-in-command of a powerful mafia. By the time her parents came of age, they had gradually distanced themselves from the mafia and started to legitimize the family business. But once a family had been touched by the underworld, it