Page 50 of Ruthless Kings of Vengeance

"Or perhaps," she counters smoothly, "we want him comfortable, confident, willing to share information he might withhold if he feels threatened."

I consider this as we pause before a heavy door marked with a discreet brass nameplate: HEADMASTER WINCHESTER.

Hannah's right, of course.

As satisfying as it might be to stride in with blood still fresh on my face, the strategic approach requires different tactics.

"Fine," I concede, stepping aside to let her remove a small packet of tissues from her bag. "Clean it. But don't remove allthe evidence—I want him to see that I've been marked but not defeated."

She works quickly, efficiently, dabbing away the worst of the blood without disturbing the thin line of the wound itself.

Her touch is gentle but clinical, reminding me of the countless times she's performed similar services for Matteo over the years. The thought creates a hollow ache in my chest, sharpening my resolve further.

I will find you, Matteo. Whatever it takes.

When Hannah finishes, she gives me a brief nod of approval. "Perfect. Visible but not distracting. It should serve your purpose well."

I straighten my blazer, adjust the silver bracelet at my wrist, and run a hand through my shortened hair.

The asymmetrical cut feels right under my fingers, another visible reminder of how much has changed since I first walked these halls. I am not the same Evangeline who arrived at Leighton with naïve determination and carefully buried trauma.

I am transformed — forged in blood and betrayal, tempered by near-death and unwavering loyalty.

I am the Ruthless Queen now, in truth as well as title. I’ll just have to prove that to those who matter.

To those who will make the final decision in this brutal mascarade of power.

Beside me, Hannah's posture shifts subtly as she prepares for what comes next. I know without asking that she has already calculated multiple approaches for this conversation, anticipated various reactions from the Headmaster, and prepared contingencies for success and failure alike.

Her mind works like Matteo's in that way — always three steps ahead, always seeing the chessboard in its entirety while others focus on individual pieces.

"Any last advice?" I ask, hand poised to knock on the imposing door.

Hannah's eyes meet mine, something fierce and loyal burning beneath her professional exterior.

"Remember who has the true power in this conversation. It isn't him, regardless of his title or position."

I smile, genuine this time despite the circumstances.

"I never forget that these days."

With that, I knock firmly on the Headmaster's door, already planning the opening moves of a game I cannot afford to lose.

The sound echoes with finality, three sharp reports that announce my presence and my intentions with equal clarity.

It's time to claim what's heartfully mine.

Starting with talking to the one who can get me access to what I need.

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