The Illusion Of Safety.

Kae's eyes locked onto Anna, his mind racing with conflicting thoughts. Why does she have to be part of the maids selected? Why was she chosen as my shield?

Anna's gaze met his, and for a brief moment, Kae saw a flicker of something fear, perhaps but it was quickly buried under a mask of cold disdain. Her eyes hardened as they fell on Kae, filled with nothing but unfiltered hatred.

"You better not die in this game," she hissed under her breath. Though her voice was low, Kae understood every word by following the sharp movement of her lips. "Make sure you survive every Elyria game because I'll be the one to kill you myself."

Kae smirked, his expression unwavering. "Sure. I'll survive. But you better stay alive too, because I'll be waiting for you to make good on that promise." His words were soft, laced with amusement, but his smile didn't reach his eyes.