52
“Sydney, wait!” Roger said.
I lost my footing and stumbled near the edge of the road, which was the only reason Roger caught up with me in his fancy shoes. Spinning around as he grabbed me, I slid in the loose dirt and fell to one knee.
“Sydney,” Roger said, seizing my shoulders, “Don’t be stupid. You can’t help Addy if you’re dead.”
Panting slightly, I nodded. The gesture was intended to convey, I hear you, not I agree with you.
Spots of color stood out on his pale cheeks as he continued, “We don’t even know she’s here. We don’t know who’s here, or who’s armed.”
I nodded again.
“The gunshot sounded close. It’s probably safer to go on foot, but let’s not just sprint directly into someone’s line of fire. Agreed?”
I nodded, and Roger said, “This time, I need to hear you say yes.”
