That’s not at all reassuring. “This whole thing concerns me.”

“What we’re talking about doesn’t. It’s been on the cards for a long time and isn’t something you need to worry about.”

I choke on indignation and thrust my hand at Tommy. “He pretended like he was going to kill St. Clare! So I almost killed him! This is where not talking gets us.”

Instead of shock, she laughs. “Good move,” she tells Tommy.

“Arlie!”

“Did we successfully find the brother? Yes? Good. Now, move on.”

“I’m in,” Ever says reluctantly, and if these three think we’re not going to revisit this conversation at a later time, they’re mistaken. I’m starting to understand why St. Clare held a grudge for so long.

Lars shifts his weight, throat tight when he says, “I don’t want any of you getting hurt.”

“Well, it’s too late for that,” Colin replies. “I’d like to not be in hiding for the rest of my life, so please put your hand up.”

With a sigh, he half raises his hand.

“Just you now,” I point out to St. Clare.

He looks around the circle like he’s deeply, deeply betrayed.

“We’re going to do it anyway, so at this point, you’re deciding whether you’ll join us.”

The air gushes from his lungs. “I’m in this to the end, but this is a big ask.”

“I know. I’m agreeing to someone playing tradesies with me.”

“We could always run away. Far, far away.”

“What about Saint Clare’s? And Margot and Elle?” That stumps him. “This will be over soon. Just say you’re gonna help.”

“Fine.” It doesn’t sound at all fine. “I’ll help.”

“We will too.”

I glance up at the person who’s joined Colin. Fiery dyed-red hair, as muscular as the people around us, and a sunshiny smile that’s at odds with how they make me want to cower behind St. Clare.

“If he thinks he’s getting to Colin, he has to go through me.”

CHAPTER FORTY-SIX

ST. CLARE

We head back up to Onyx’s apartment, all of us cramming into the tiny space, and while the relief in my soul over finding Colin is immense, I only have eyes for one man.

I’m sick at the thought of what they’re planning.

“So …” I confirm, to make sure I’m following as Onyx sets out some freshly baked cookies. “Arlie will take Perry to Lethal Poison and tell Luther that he’ll get Colin once she gets the address?”