#Chapter 102: Live Wire

Aurora POV I’m sitting cross-legged on the couch, my phone resting like a live grenade on my knee. Dominic leans against the wall near the window, arms folded over his chest while looking like a stoic silhouette in the gray morning light. Romero is seated on the armchair opposite me, his own phone in hand while his eyes flick across the screen. The twins are out for another reconnaissance mission, double checking the plan we’re already set into motion. That plan I’ve been stressed about for the past twenty four hours. Today is finally the day. The day we play Alek at his own game. “Remember,” Dominic says, his voice firm when he speaks. “When you message him, make sure it sounds convincing. You’re baiting him. Every word matters. He needs to think he’s still in control.” I nod, though my stomach feels like it’s trying to crawl up my throat. “I know.” He gives me a small, reassuring smile—well, as reassuring as he gets. “You can do this, Aurora. Just keep playin