My chest felt as though it were being torn open, while the three of them looked on, relishing my torment.
By now the entrance was crowded with members of the institute. Someone finally couldn’t help but speak up. “Isn’t this going too far? Why not just talk things out, why resort to violence?”
Unbothered, Xaviera turned to the onlookers, loudly explaining, “What’s the big deal? This vicious woman killed my Sissy and she still dares to claim this whole room as her own. I’m just helping her face reality.”
Professor Laird nodded approvingly. “Exactly. She’s nothing but a disgrace, a failure. What right does she have to show off?”
Meanwhile, Zack spotted the only intact glass tube left on the table. He picked it up and twirled it between his fingers, curiosity flashing in his eyes. “And what’s this?”
Panic surged through me. “Put it down!”
Zack and Xaviera exchanged a knowing look. Zack turned the tube over in his hand with idle curiosity, then sneered. “Why so nervous?”
Xaviera chimed in with mocking sweetness. “Oh, must be some priceless treasure! What now? Are you going to say it’s worth millions?”