"I don't want to die," I hiss, water sluicing down my shoulders as I hold Cole's gaze. He doesn't blink. His fingers press under my jaw, hard enough to make my teeth ache. "Good," he says. "Tell me why I should keep you." "I won't tell," I choke. "Not a word. I'll leave Autumn Hall. I'll disappear. Just—" "You think gone is safety?" He let his thumb drag across my lower lip. "You think I trust promises from someone who sits in mourning silk and calls it repentance?" "Then kill me." The words slide out before I can stop them. "Finish it. Spare the court a scandal." Cole's mouth curls. "You know why I haven't?" "You keep me because you're merciful," I say. My voice is steadier than I feel. "Because the regent is generous and the empire needs charity." He laughs, low and dangerous. "Mercy doesn't buy anything in my world. Utility does." His thumb tightens. Pain blooms. "Tell me something useful. Tell me what you're hiding." My hand goes to the curve of my belly before I realize. I pull it back. "Nothing. Finnian—" "You named him." He pushes my face away and I slide on the stone. Water runs cold against the floor and I shiver. "I won't say a name," I whisper. "You already did." He steps closer, dry despite the steam. "Names matter. Blood matters. An heir changes loyalties overnight." "Then take me