16
Core stood on the deck overlooking the river. His fingers tightened on the railing when he saw a dark shadow moving toward him along a nearby thick branch. He didn’t want to talk to anyone at the moment.
“Go away, Merrick,” Core ordered before his cousin had a chance to jump down onto the deck.
“RITA2 told me that Avery left,” Merrick said, ignoring Core’s order to leave.
Core scowled. “She needs to be disconnected,” he snapped.
Merrick chuckled. “I’d be careful about what you say or DAR might take offense,” he replied.
Core glanced at his cousin with an annoyed expression. He was about to give a sarcastic retort when he saw the look of concern on Merrick’s face. Merrick turned to look out over the river.
“She’s hurting and I don’t know what to do,” he suddenly admitted.
“Be the
