Contents
Chapter Thirty-Two
Overview
Holland follows Adam to his extravagant Regal penthouse and realizes his influence far exceeds the Bank bar. A photo of Adam’s brother, Mason, exposes a painful rift. Though Adam dismisses the Alchemical Heart as a death trap, Holland reveals the Watch Man’s ultimatum. Bound by January’s charge to keep Holland alive, Adam agrees to take her to the Watch Man.
Summary
Holland and Adam ride to the Regal’s penthouse, where vivid color returns and the opulent suite signals Adam’s immense power. Adam casually discards his key and jacket, indifferent to the breathtaking skyline, reinforcing that wealth and status are routine for him.
Exploring the space, Holland notices rare film posters and a framed photo of Adam with his older brother, Mason—the man she saw at the Hollywood Roosevelt. Adam’s mood darkens; he admits he once idolized Mason but hints at a falling-out that ended his admiration, then shuts down the topic.
They spar over the penthouse and Adam’s habits. He says the Bank sent him to the Regal to heal after being shot and that rumors tied Holland to the Alchemical Heart. Adam declares he won’t chase the Heart because it’s lethal and he values staying alive.
Holland presses for help finding the Heart. Adam refuses, citing January’s order to keep Holland alive. When Holland reveals the Watch Man’s warning—that she will die at 11:59 on Halloween without the Heart—Adam sobers, recognizing the urgency.
Holland asks him to take her to the Watch Man. Adam demands more information but accepts a partial explanation, asserting he can “get through any door.” He agrees to take her, motivated by January’s directive and Holland’s peril, while his cocky confidence leaves Holland unsure if he will save her or doom her.
Who Appears
- HollandProtagonist; seeks the Alchemical Heart and insists on finding the Watch Man after his death warning.
- Adam BishopWealthy, influential fixer; wary of the Heart but agrees to take Holland to the Watch Man per January’s charge.
- Mason BishopAdam’s older brother; seen in a photo and at the Roosevelt; source of painful family rift.
- JanuaryHolland’s sister; tasked Adam with keeping Holland alive, influencing his decision to help.
- The Watch ManMysterious caller who warned Holland she’ll die on Halloween; target of their next move.