Both of our smiles fade quickly with the nauseating speed of the elevator. My ears pop the higher we go, and I have to place one hand against my stomach and the other against the wall to steady myself. Finally, we come to a stop, and I barely suppress a groan as we spill out into the blindingly white hallway.

“I forgot how much I hate the elevators here,” I grumble, shaking off my discomfort and checking to see if Cami is okay. Other than a pale tinge to her features, she seems fine.

The scent of bleach hits me, the memory of my time here last week turning my skin clammy. I’m trembling slightly as I try to maintain control of my thoughts, rather than descend into recollected fear.

“Come on,” I rasp. “This way.”

Together we navigate the zigzagging corridors, being careful to check around the corners as we head toward Vanik’s lab. We don’t run into anyone along the way—it’s eerily quiet, just like the lower levels of Lengard. Prior to meeting Ward, I spent two and a half years without seeing anyone other than my guards and evaluators, so the lack of people wandering the facility doesn’t strike me as odd. Nevertheless, it’s still creepy.

When we reach the single doorway at the end of the corridor, I wonder if my heart is going to pound right out of my chest. I can’t help thinking about how helpless I felt here just a week ago, how I was strapped down and incapable of freeing myself, incapable of saving myself by word or action. I was weak—so incredibly weak.

But not today.

Today I am strong.

Today.

I.

Am.

Strong.

I ball my hands into fists, the pain of my fingernails digging into my flesh helping to center me. I draw in a deep breath, wait for my heartbeat to settle, and look at Cami.

“Ready?” I ask.

There’s fear in her eyes. She, too, has horrific memories of this place—as well as a lack of memories, ones stolen from her that must feel like an empty hole in her mind. We were both violated in different ways: me, physically, and she, mentally. We both have scores to settle with Vanik, with Manning. But not today.

“Ward only, remember?” I tell her quietly. Despite my words, I’m now inwardly hoping for a chance to confront Vanik and demand answers, even if it’s foolish, even if it’s dangerous, even if, for now, he has to stay here. Unharmed.

I see her jaw clench, but she nods her agreement. I’m not worried she’ll renege—her brother is too important for her to risk seeking revenge. Not yet. Her time will come.

As will mine.