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Adrenaline exploded into Stone’s system and leapt at Talia just as gunshots rang out. His body crashed into hers, knocking her clear. As they crumpled onto the carpeted floor behind one of the couches, Stone felt as though the breath had been knocked out of his lungs.
The assassin fired round after round in repeated succession. Bullets slammed into the couch and wall. Splintered wood, tufts of stuffing, and drywall dust peppered them from both sides.
Stone shielded Talia with his body. But his g*n was out in a flash. He popped three rounds through the back of the couch toward the threat. A muffled grunt was audible, one of the rounds had struck its target.
The gunman hit the ground but continued firing as he began backing out of the room.
Stone leaned over the top of the couch and
