I tightened my grip on Mia’s arm, lowering my voice so only she could hear. “I can’t… I can’t say how this is going to turn out. You need to go now. Please.”
Her gaze met mine, unwavering, stubborn. “I’m not leaving. I’m here to help you, Kael. I can’t back out now—not when you need me.”
I exhaled sharply, frustration and worry warring inside me. The lot outside was alive with movement. Raven and a handful of his men were approaching the building, their steps heavy, calculated. The shadows of their bodies stretched long across the cracked asphalt, the glint of their weapons catching the weak streetlights.
I glanced at the nearest room on the first floor, slightly ajar. “We can use that room,” I muttered, pulling her toward it. “Stay close, and don’t—”
Before I could finish, a sudden co
