Page 37 of Wounded Hearts

“Well, I can’t promise that, but he won’t be a problem either.”

“Good enough. Smithy, any news for me?”

Everyone looked to the man who’d been relatively silent since he’d entered the room. Drew knew he’d met with Mara yesterday and she’d shown him a few techniques that would help when he found himself struggling.

“Actually, we may have had a breakthrough with the drug she’s using to kill the non-gifted. Megan has found a compound that blocks the release of the drug. We still need to do some trials though.”

“Thank fuck for that. It’s the first bit of good news we’ve had. If you need more people tell me, and I’ll get them somehow. The recruits all have NDAs so maybe we can keep them busy that way.”

“As soon as we have something, we’ll shout but we still need to work on the drug for the soldiers.”

“Do you need more scientists?”

“That would be good. We’re snowed under and going back and forth between them is a problem.”

“Okay. Have Megan draw up a list of suitable candidates and I’ll speak to them.”

Smithy nodded for the first time since this began, and Drew could see he was looking more like himself.

“Before we go, Lucy, have you got together with Megan and Lizzie like we discussed and tried out this gift you share?”

Drew saw Jace tense at Zack’s question. Drew could totally understand Jace’s reluctance, especially after their conversation yesterday.

Lucy blew out a breath. “Yes, but it didn’t work.”

“Is it possible it only works under high-pressure environments?” Drew asked.

Lucy shrugged. “I guess it could but who knows.”

“Well, let’s see how we get on with everything else for now. You have your assignments so get to work,” Zack said dismissing the team who moved for the door.

“Drew.” Zack’s voice stopped him.

He turned. “Yes?”

“How is Mara really getting on?”

“Honestly, she’s doing well, all things considered. I think being busy and feeling useful is helping her a lot. She loved being a physio and was very good at it.”

“Do you think she might consider a more permanent role with us?”

Drew was surprised but delighted at the thought of her staying on with Fortis. “I’m not sure but maybe you should ask her. I think it’d be better coming from you. More professional.”

“And you? This must be difficult for you too.”

Drew considered his answer, respecting his boss and friend far too much to give him a route response. “I have to admit, it was a shock and not a nice one. The fact it’s my family hurting people is guilt I can’t help but carry but I’m trying not to.”

“If you need anything, any support at all, then ask. We’re family too, one made from sweat and tears rather than blood in some cases, but we’re still family in my book. You’ve come so far, Drew, don’t let this woman steal it from you.” Zack clapped him on the shoulder and squeezed and once again Drew found himself thanking his lucky stars for these people.

“Thanks, Zack, I will, and for what it’s worth, you’re all family to me too.”

Zack lifted his chin and Drew headed off to find Jace. His mind went to Mara though and what they’d shared last night. If he’d been half in love before, the way she’d supported him when she’d read the letter from his mother had cemented that. Her shy smile as he’d dropped her off at the estate to work with Doc again, and the way she’d blushed when he’d kissed her in front of Lizzie had made him smile.

He wanted to see that smile every day. He just had to stop the Watchers and Wells from taking it all away. Drew had no doubt in his mind that Wells would come for her at some point. He wasn’t the kind of man to take a sight like that and walk away. He’d be planning his attack and when he came, Drew and Fortis would be ready.