Orion’s POV:
Right after I feel the stab of pain, two consecutive gunshots crack through the air. My body jerks as I push myself up from the floor, pain radiating from my arm. I can already feel the warmth of blood beginning to soak through my shirt. My vision blurs momentarily, but I fight the dizziness and turn toward the only thing keeping me grounded.
Evangeline.
She’s right under me, her face streaked with tears, her eyes wide and terrified as she keeps repeating the word ‘No’.
My chest tightens at the sight, and I instinctively reach for her. My hand wraps around her trembling wrist and I pull her close, ignoring the searing pain in my shoulder.
“I’m fine. I’m okay. Calm down,” I whisper, trying to convince her even if I barely believe it myself. Her lips quiver, a choked sob es
