Burn Me Once, Burn With Me novel Chapter 96

She lifted her chin, eyes clear and cutting. "I don't know if you're trying to trick me into going back just to torment me again, or if you want me to play some twisted part in your and Gennifer's games, or maybe your conscience finally caught up with you. But I have only one thing to say—"

Ruby cradled Mira, stepping back as she pointed toward the door. "Now. Out."

Her voice was firm, her gaze as cold and sharp as a frostbitten autumn morning.

Cassian looked at her, watching how completely unmoved she was, and couldn't help but rub his brow in frustration.

Yet this time, his patience seemed inexhaustible. "Do you really think getting drugged tonight was just a coincidence?"

At his words, Ruby stiffened.

He was right.

No one sells that kind of filth openly. Why would a server target her, of all people?

She snapped her gaze up, her eyes like daggers.

"I'm not that desperate."

Cassian's lips twitched.

Ruby pressed, "Then why are you even here?"

Cassian spread his hands, looking completely at ease. "Last time at the bar, I only ran into you because a client bailed on me. Tonight, it's just a meeting at a different place."

She eyed him, searching his face for any hint of a lie. But he looked so unbothered, so straightforward, she found herself lowering her head.

It was true—Cassian had never been interested in her, not like that. He had no reason to set her up.

And besides, he hadn't done anything. She knew her own body.

So who did?

The question crashed through her mind, sending a chill racing up her spine.

"If I hadn't shown up tonight, what do you think would've happened?"

Cassian seized on her uncertainty. "That's exactly why you should come back to Northridge Manor with me. It's the only place you'll be safe."

"If not for yourself, then for the child in your arms."

He glanced at Mira, bundled against Ruby's chest.

She turned her face away, her resolve like steel.

The air between them froze, heavy with tension.

Cassian stared at her rigid posture, feeling a weight settle on his heart.

At last, he stood, pausing at the door. "You're not safe here. If you change your mind, you can come back anytime."

His footsteps echoed dully as he left, and the door thudded shut behind him.

Ruby collapsed onto the bed, every muscle trembling.

She clutched Mira tightly, her nerves stretched to the breaking point.

Cassian's warning rang in her ears as she jumped up to draw the curtains closed, heart thudding in her chest.

Cold dread crept through her.

Tonight had been a lust drug—what if next time it was something to knock her out completely? If she lost consciousness, what would happen to Mira?