Chapter 69 · Three Things to Save

"Say her name again, and I'll put you through the floor."

Lucas stepped in front of Evelyn, blocking Marek's view of her with his body.

Marek's mouth twisted. "There he is. The family dog finally found a leash he hates."

Nora swore under her breath, fingers flying over the damaged console. "Lucas, I've got the west relay. I need the core connected now."

"Do it."

Marek fired.

Lucas grabbed Evelyn around the waist and drove her to the floor. The bullet tore through the console above them. Sparks sprayed across the metal, hot against Evelyn's cheek.

The second shot cracked before she could draw a full breath.

Metal screamed beside Nora's head.

"Nora!"

Evelyn crawled toward her, but Marek seized Nora by the back of her jacket and hauled her upright. His pistol slid beneath Nora's jaw.

Nora's breath caught. The muzzle dug into her skin.

"Touch the core," Marek said, "and she dies."

Lucas rose slowly, his weapon aimed at Marek's chest. His jaw clenched hard enough to crack a tooth.

"Let her go."

"Put your gun down."

"No."

Marek shoved the barrel higher.