And then he's kissing me.
Upside down.
With a bomb between us.
Because apparently that's just how this pack operates.
His lips are warm—demanding, claiming, tasting like smoke and desperation and relief. The angle is awkward, the timing is insane, and I wouldn't have it any other way.
"I almost killed Kai for what he did," Blaze murmurs against my mouth. "But I guess I forgive him."
A giggle escapes me.
Hysterical.
Completely inappropriate.
"Well, that's nice," I manage, "but we only have—" I check the countdown, "—three minutes to defuse this bomb."
"Easy." His hands are already back on the device, fingers working with a dexterity I didn't expect. "But the moment I unlock it, you need to drop. And pray Kai can catch."
Drop.
Thirty feet.
Pray.
"How comforting."
"I'm a comfort creature. Ask anyone."
02:47
02:46
02:45
His fingers move faster.
In my ear—or maybe in his, transmitted somehow—I hear Jett's voice, calm and precise, giving instructions I can't quite make out.
02:31
02:30
02:29
"Almost..."
The bomb's casing clicks.
Something releases.
"Got it. Vest unlocking in ten seconds. Get ready to fall."
"Ready is a strong word?—"
"Ten."
