Chapter 42: Chapter 42

Sofia winced at the loud crack of the firing gun, but Gunner recoiled, his shoulder flung back by the impact of a bullet. Red stained his chest, soaking his shirt. He went down to his knees, expression incredulous as he bled out.

Her heart stopped.

She took a step, but the king barked, "Don't touch him."

If she didn't do something, he would die in front of her. "Why would you do that?" she screamed, turning on the king. "I told you I would do what you wanted."

"But would you have done it properly? Or would you have held back? I can't have you holding back. There is too much at stake."

"Why are you doing this to me?" she sobbed. "Why won't you leave me alone?"

"When are you going to let go of what the Enclave hammered into you over and over? When will you realize the good you can do? Why do you insist on hiding your ability?"

"Because. . ." She looked at her hands, flexed her fingers. "Because I am afraid."