Chapter 41 · They followed us

"They followed us."

"I know."

"They will fire."

"I know that too."

"Then move away from me."

"No."

"You need to stop saying that."

"Make me."

The lead hunter aimed at Lila. "Step aside, scavenger. The asset comes with us."

"He's not an asset."

"He's a classified weapon."

"He can hear you."

"Good. Maybe he'll remember what happens when he refuses orders."

Cain's shoulders tightened.

Lila lifted the pry bar. "Shoot me and he breaks your neck before the second round."

The hunter laughed. "He can't control himself without his chip."

Cain looked at Lila.

"He knows," she said. "Don't give him the proof."

"You don't have the chip," the hunter said. "You have nothing."

"I have a very large problem standing beside me."

"He is our problem."

"Not tonight."

The hunter's rifle shifted toward Cain's chest. "Kneel."

Cain stepped forward.

Lila stepped with him.

"Stay behind me," he said.

"Make me."

"You heard him. You have nothing."

"I have you."

The words came out before fear could stop them.

Cain went still.

The hunters hesitated too.

Lila raised her chin. "You heard me. I have him. So if you want him, come through me.