Chapter 41

“How many times where you hit?” Eli asks as he starts driving.

“Twice,” Jayden says, trying to get comfortable, which is next to impossible right now.

“How did this happen?” Eli asks.

“I was following a scent. I didn’t realize I’d gotten close to where the cops were. Ran into one and got shot,” Jayden explains.

“Okay, just rest. We’ll be there soon.” Eli drives back to the motel, probably breaking every traffic law in town. Once they’re in the motel parking lot, Eli gets out of the car and helps Jayden to Eli’s room.

Eli gets him to lie face down on the bed after he puts down a few towels so they don’t leave behind any blood evidence. Ditching some towels will look less suspicious than getting rid of the bedding would. Eli is still gathering first-aid supplies when the door opens, and Chogan comes back into the room. He must have risked a speeding ticket, too.

“How is he?” Chogan asks.

“I can talk,” Jayden grumbles.