Chapter 2: Knots in the Noose

The world snapped to black, then color bled back in—same chair, same ticking clock. By my ear, the summons to death rang out again.

"The President’s returned victorious. Even if you’re under the weather, you need to pull yourself together and go to the mansion to offer your congratulations," Charles repeats, like a broken record.

My throat still throbs from the last time. I remember Charles’s attack, the shock of betrayal, the helpless panic. So this time, I decide to strike first.

I sit up, quietly feeling for the pocketknife tucked beneath my pillow. The sheets are still warm, my palms slick with fear-sweat. "Hey, Councilman… can I ask you something?" I force a smile.

He leans in, curiosity piqued. That’s all I need. I throw my arm around his neck, the knife glinting as I drive it toward his chest and stomach.

But Charles is tougher than I thought. For a guy pushing sixty, he’s got the grip of a steel trap. He twists my wrist, wrests the knife free, and plunges it into me.

Pain blooms, white-hot, under my ribs. My mind reels. I remember the President always mocking my frailty—maybe I should’ve spent more time at the gym.

My body goes cold. I won’t die for nothing this time.

"Why does Louise want to kill me?" I gasp, each word scraping at my throat.

Charles’s face is torn, guilt etched deep in his eyes. His hand trembles as he clutches the knife, not looking at me. "Henry… you’re confused… You’re a decorated official, and so young. How could Louise tolerate you? Why not marry one of her daughters and become family?"

A daughter of the Louise family—Lucy? Didn’t she marry Frank Carter? That mess between her and me feels like a lifetime ago. Maybe… if I made peace with Lucy, I could survive?

I try to ask more, but Charles, face a mask of misery, stabs me again. This time, the world slips away completely.