I wasn't surprised.
Amber would never agree easily.
If she gave in to one demand, it would only invite more.
She would never allow that.
But I had already prepared for this.
I pulled a small dagger from my pocket.
The blade reflected the soft yellow light as I raised it above my wrist.
Amber's eyes narrowed immediately.
"Amber," I said calmly, "you underestimate what I'm willing to do for my family."
And then I moved.
The blade sliced down without hesitation.
Pain burned across my skin as warm blood spilled instantly onto the sheets.
Red spread across the bed like a sudden storm.
I looked up at her and smiled.
"Sorry for ruining your bed," I said lightly. "But red looks better, don't you think?"
"Elena, have you gone insane?" Amber snapped, fury flashing across her face.
I tilted my head slightly, lifting the blood-covered knife.
"All I want is Whitney's freedom," I said cheerfully. "If you don't believe I'll kill myself… should I try my throat next?"
