The bullet cut the night, sharp and deadly.
Ethan's scream ripped the air, a high, terror-filled shriek. His small hands clutched at my shirt, his tiny body shuddering against me.
"No!" My throat was hoarse, my voice begging. My heart thudded against my chest as I spun around, praying—pleading it had gone by.
James was already moving, his face locked, controlled. He reached for his gun, his eyes probing the shadows.
"Stay down," he ordered.
I fell to my knees and shielded Ethan. I panted as footsteps ran nearer.
Another bullet was discharged.
Then—silence.
My heart lurched as I hurled myself forward, fear overcome by instinct. But James pulled me back to the ground before I could reach him. A second shot cracked, and agony exploded in my ears, a screaming whine trailing behind.
Gu
