Chapter 39 · Rayne's head snapped up

He pressed one hand over the wound. Blood pushed between his fingers.

The officer stepped closer. "Move away from him, Sera Vaughn. Cole wants you breathing. He wants the pups breathing too, if you hand them over."

Rayne's head snapped up.

"You know her name?"

"Cole knows everything."

The radio crackled again.

Cole's voice came through, smooth and pleased.

"Rayne. You should have listened when I offered you a clean death."

Sera stared at the radio.

"What offer?"

Cole laughed softly. "He didn't tell you? That's adorable."

Rayne's hand closed around Sera's wrist.

His palm was slick with blood. His grip still had enough strength to hurt.

"Don't listen to him."

"You told Cole he could have you?"

"Not like that."

"Then explain it."

The officer stepped around them. "Cole offered Commander Rayne's life in exchange for the children. He walks east with us, and the pups live. He refuses, and we burn the cart."

Sera looked at Rayne.

His breathing had turned rough. Each inhale lifted the blood-soaked fabric under his hand.

"You made a deal," she said.

"No."

"Your name is on the order. Your life is the price. My children are the payment.