Kayden's POV
I and my brothers were entering the private elevator, leading to the floor where the gathering is held.
Keith stood like a sentinel, Kieran was already adjusting his expression into one of charming neutrality. I focused on my breathing, in and out.
Then the music started.
A soft, classical piece. I know this one. I know the way the cello dips on the third note, a sound like a sinking heart.
My own heart stuttered, then began to pound, a frantic drum against my ribs. The walls of the elevator, once a safe cocoon, began to close in. The polished brass smelled like the polish he used on his collection cases.
Keith was saying something. Kieran turned, his face sharp with concern. But their voices were fading, swallowed by the memory of other sounds.
The rustle of silk. The clink of tools being laid out on a velvet cloth. The hum of approval from a man who saw people as things.
No...Please don't take my voice away
