Gabriel’s laugh echoed through the hall, sharp and unhinged. He waved the gun lazily, taunting her. “You think you’re so clever, don’t you, Chelsea? Playing god with people’s lives. Reconstructing faces, erasing identities.” His gaze flicked to the doorway, as if sensing our presence. I ducked back quickly.
“You have no idea what you’re talking about,” Chelsea spat, her voice steady despite the barrel of the gun against her temple.
“Oh, I know plenty,” Gabriel sneered. “You built your empire on lies, on stolen techniques. Should I remind you how you climbed your way to the top, doctor? Or would you prefer I let your little protégé find out herself?”
My breath hitched.
WHAT WAS HE TALKING ABOUT?
“You’re a coward,” Chelsea said coldly. “Hiding behind threats and manipulation. You think I’ll give you what you want? You’re delusional.”
Gabriel tilted his head, a dangerous smile spreading across his face. “Oh, but you will. Because if you don’t, I’ll make sure Kristie here knows exactly what kind of monster you are. And when she does, I’ll kill her too. Slowly.”