Sins of the Mother

Maverick’s POV

The corridor smelled like sweat and dread. Not the thick damp of cell blocks, but a sharper, sharper scent—the anticipation of violence. I moved without thinking, boots pounding softly against stone as I strode toward her cage. In my hand, I held a blade— one made of silver and moonlight.

Guards steered clear as I passed, sensing the storm inside me. I reached the cage before I real