Her face falls. She sighs. "You entered the Underworld. No one enters and leaves unless through death. Do I need to spell it out?"
My gut sinks further. I ask, "What about Sean?"
"What about him?"
"How did he get involved in your cult?"
"It's not a cult," she snaps.
"No? Sure seems like it has similar characteristics. I mean?—"
"Last warning. Do not speak disrespectfully of the Underworld. I cannot protect you from the consequences," she threatens in a firm voice.
I open my mouth but don't speak. Her eyes have a warning I haven't seen before, and it sends a chill down my spine.
She lowers her voice. "The Underworld is always watching and listening. Choose your actions and words wisely."
My heart thumps harder. As soon as Valentina left, men pulled me away from Sean and brought me here, so I couldn't even talk to him. I don't know what I've stepped into, but I don't like it.
She runs her fingers over her tattoo. "Make a choice, Brax. Take this seriously, or it'll be the last choice you make."
"Because you'll kill me?" I ask in a teasing voice. I'm sure Valentina can hold her own, but I also think I could overpower her. I've never killed a woman, but if I had to choose between her and me, I'd choose myself.
She smirks, "You don't think I could?"
"You don't think I'd kill you?" I threaten, locking my gaze into hers.
Her smile widens. "While I'd love the opportunity to show you what I'm capable of, that isn't my role tonight. But if you do not use thistime wisely, others are waiting. And trust me, there will be no option to fight if they come through this door."
My chest tightens. The room suffocates me further. I don't move.
She softens her tone. "If you die, I will too."
"Aw. You love me already, Juliet?" I tease.
Her expression hardens. "This isn't a game, Brax!"
I put my hands in the air. "Fine. Lighten up, though. It's hot enough in here without you breathing fire at me."
She tilts her head.
I glance back at the keyhole on the door and decide I'd better take this seriously. I saw how they made Sean kill all those men. So I grumble, "Fine. Do your thing. But is there any ice in here?" I step in front of the fridge and push the lever on the door.
It grinds, but no ice comes out.
I mutter, "You sure they don't want to kill us from heat stroke?"
"It's our punishment."
I spin. "Our?"
She stares at me.
"Go on. I can handle it. Why would we both get punished?" I ask.
She shakes her head. "Don't ask questions."
"Why?"
