Chapter 70: Forgiveness

When Reid finally pulls himself together and steps outside, he discovers he isn't alone after all. Marcus is waiting for

him.

They stare into each other's eyes for a long time, the cool night breeze washing over them, detached from the horror

happening on the other side of the compound.

"Thank you," Marcus begins but Reid shakes his head.

"Don't, please." His heart can't take another loss. He thought that was true when Drew died. But now Reid knows it for

sure. He doesn't want to care about anything, not the kids he just sent to die, the girl he loves and hasn't told or the

enemy turned ally standing in front of him.

Marcus falls silent, moves to leave. "I expect to see you at the gate," he says. "When this is over."

Reid nods. "You too. And Marcus."

Marcus waits. "Yeah."

"In case you were wondering. I heard everything you said." Seems fair to tell him that.

"Yeah," Marcus says.