“Help!” I screamed suddenly, my voice ripping through the silent room. “Someone help!”
The word echoed off the walls.
Silence answered me.
No footsteps.
No rush.
Only the distant drip of water somewhere in the building and the faint buzz of dying fluorescent lights overhead.
“Elena...” I pressed my forehead against hers. “Open your eyes, please...”
My fingers brushed her cheek, shaking.
“Don’t die on me now. You can’t give up. Big sister... please... stay with me.”
Nothing.
Her head slumped heavier against my shoulder.
I pulled her closer and lowered my ear to her chest — listening.
There.
A faint beat. Weak. Unstable.
But there.
Relief and terror collided inside me at the same time.
She was still fighting.
Footsteps. Sudden.
Running.
They thundered down the corridor, growing louder by the second.
My body reacted before my mind did.
I shifted, lowering her slightly while tightening my hold, ready to use my gun if anyone came in hostile.
Two men burst through the doorway.
Black tactical gear.
Earpieces.
Serious expressions hardened by discipline.
My muscles locked.
I expected force. Expected them to grab me. Restrain me. Question me.
Instead—
They moved straight toward us.
