Chapter 2004

Vivian hastily rumpled the bed, hoping to make the scene appear as innocent as possible. Her eyes darted around the room, searching for any trace that Manfred had left behind. Only when she was certain the chamber was spotless did she snatch up her dagger and turn toward the door, every muscle in her body taut with vigilance. She knew it was only a matter of time before Sterling found her. Still, a small hope clung to her—perhaps Manfred's secret chamber was cleverly designed—enough to escape detection. But Sterling was no fool. If anyone else had been searching, they might have given up after searching for a while. Sterling, however, had a reputation for dogged persistence. The idea of the secret chamber had taken root in his mind, and he wouldn't be dissuaded. Unless he tore the entire place apart, there would be no end to his hunt. Just as the pounding of Vivian's heart reached a fevered pitch, the chamber's door groaned open. "There really is a secret chamber!" A l