CHAPTER 43

I moved into the blistering brightness of the entrance hall with Ruth by my side, every fiber alert. My hand lay lightly on the butt of my pistol, but I couldn't help wondering if this demonstration of strength was prudent. We were outmanned—two of us standing against a room of gun-wielding men whose eyes sparkled with distrust. In our world, a weapon was both shield and signal. I wasn't going to drop my guard; if anything, I needed all the advantages I could get to last through what was approaching.

Ruth's eyes flashed with nervousness as she looked around. I could sense the turmoil inside her—the way her fingers twitched slightly as she clutched the strap of her bag, the stiff set of her shoulders. I wished I could reassure her that I had everything under control. But behind the scenes, I was already thinking ahead.