The pain was dull at first, a sharp sting that barely registered until her side began to throb. Then, it hit her like a wave as the wound ignited into searing agony. Violet gasped, clutching at her abdomen just as Nathan yanked the small knife from her side, the blade slick with her blood. Her legs buckled slightly, and she stumbled back, horrified as she watched the pristine white of her shirt bloom crimson.
Nathan tilted his head, the faintest look of amusement playing on his face. "A few more stabs should be enough to get the job done," he said nonchalantly, already planning his next move. His eyes flicked toward the guard still sprawled on the floor, bound and bleeding, before locking back onto her. His lips curved into a twisted grin.