90. Oh No!

The person stepped closer, a strange smile playing on their lips. "Hello, Emily."

As my eyes adjusted to the dim light, I felt my heart drop. It was Salvatore, Giovanni's half-brother. My mind reeled, trying to make sense of his presence here.

"Salvatore?" I croaked, my throat dry from fear and dehydration. "What's going on? Why are you here?"

His smile widened, but it didn't reach his eyes. "Oh, Emily. You played right into our trap. It was almost too easy."

I shook my head, confusion mingling with terror. "Trap? What are you talking about? Where's Hadid?"

Salvatore laughed, a cold, mirthless sound that sent chills down my spine. "Hadid? She was just a pawn, my dear. A means to an end. And that end was bringing you here."

"What?" I gasped, struggling against my bonds. "No, that can't be true. Hadid wouldn't... Where is she? What have you done with her?"

His face hardened, all traces of amusement gone. "Shut up," he snapped, "or you'll regret it."

Before I could say another word, he p