Page 123 of Born Savage

“It’s okay, Wren.” I squatted beside her, enjoying the feel of her arms around my neck.

Wrath and Vicious moved forward, Vicious throwing back his hand to keep us from advancing.

Seconds later, he returned. He was grinning. “A bridge. And you wouldn’t believe the other side. Night and fucking day, man.”

I stood, taking Wren’s hand into mine. “We’re almost home.”

Yet as I walked forward, finally noticing blue sky through the canopy of trees, another moment of apprehension hit me hard. Harder than with almost every other trial. Ahead was a bridge crossing the body of water we’d heard.

Raging rapids slammed against craggy rocks below, wind rolling across the bridge’s surface. There were few guardrails, those remaining twisted steel, several pieces dangling off the sides.

As I walked closer to the start of the massive span leading to the other side, my breath was caught.

Jake didn’t waste any time, bounding across the surface. Barking and yipping both in instructions to follow and a warning not to wait long.

Rage flanked my side, his presence an anchor. We stood for a few seconds, peering at the huge cracks in the asphalt. The bridge had once been a masterpiece of engineering. Now it was slowly crumbling away, pieces falling into the river below. And immediately swept away.

The water was hundreds of feet below, not survivable if someone jumped. Or fell.

My nerves were instantly on edge, every breath becoming caught in my throat. This was my personal kryptonite, much like claustrophobia was for Rage. Only he’d conquered his and I’d yet to face mine.

Another trial.

Another test.

Yet I couldn’t move an inch.

Pop! Pop!

A howl penetrated the trees from behind.

“Let’s go, Rage,” Wrath hissed between clenched teeth. “We don’t have much time.”

“We’ll be right there. Wren, go with Wrath. Go find Jake. Okay?” Rage’s voice held no anger, no frustration with me. Just a quiet calm.

“You gotta hurry, guys.” Vicious’ voice echoed in my ears.

“We’re coming,” I managed but had yet to move an inch.

Before Wren left, she moved toward me, placing her small hand in mine. “I can’t wait to show you our home. Come with me.”

Her words resonated, so sweet and gentle. The feel of her skin touching mine presented several tingles rushing down my arm. I had to do this.

“I’m coming, sweet girl. Wait for me.”

“Come on. Let’s race across this bridge.” Wrath grabbed her, causing Wren to giggle.

When they moved away, Rage took my hand. “We can do this. Together.”

Nodding, I allowed him to guide me to the bridge’s entrance. I’d seen this very sight in a book somewhere. Or maybe I’d envisioned it in my dreams. As we were approached, the sounds of shots being fired and the water crashing against the rocks was drowned out.

Not only by the rapid beating of my heart, but also the creaking sounds coming from every corner of the bridge.

While it was only two lanes, once on the surface, it seemed wider than I’d thought, but after only taking two steps, a huge chunk fell away, smashing into the rocks below.

A shriek left my throat and I flew into Rage’s arms, clinging to him as I panted.

“It’s okay.” He pulled my head against his chest, pressing his hand across a portion of my face. “Just breathe.”