Chapter 69

"DON'T LEAVE HIM!"

Eve shouted her throat raw while the rest of the squad dragged her away, returning fire across the street as they went. Royce's body disappeared after they ducked into an alley only wide enough for two people to walk abreast at a time.

"Teth," Eve said while he pushed her forward, gently but firmly. "We have to go back for him!"

"Royce is dead," Teth said. His eyes narrowed as if even he didn't believe it. "We have to go."

"Butª"

"Move, soldier!" Mad shouted. "We're all dead if you don't!"

The words perished in Eve's throat. Reluctantly, she followed Rich and Lisha Ward away from their attackers, never daring to venture back into the open street. Her legs felt like jelly and the world spun around her head, but she didn't stop. Teth slowed his pace to remain by her side. She hardly noticed, save for his frantic glances at her, like he was afraid she would fall to pieces at any moment.