Chapter 28: Teams
"If you’re not ready to die for us, why’d I fight with you?" Alex asked. He hopped off the bunk bed, landed with a loud thud, and walked to Don Capo’s side.
Ignoring Sean’s feelings, Alex sat beside Ace and eyed the pan. The smell of boiling rations made his stomach growl.
"Can I have a portion?" he asked.
Ace chuckled. "Make one yourself. It’s for me and Mercer."
"Eh, where’d I stash my rations?" Alex muttered as he stood to search his bag.
He’s loyal and thinks straight, Ace thought with a faint smile.
Because Ace had told Sean the harsh truth—that he could die in the Gate—Alex saw that Ace was honest and fair. Ace hadn’t tried to shoulder everything alone; he had laid out reality. That made Alex even more loyal to Don Capo.
The raised voices woke the rest. Their talk hit the others like cold water, reminding everyone that yesterday was no dream. Some sided with Sean, others resolved to survive and be useful.
Though she chose the second option, Chaewon still tried to comfort Sean. "I know it’s tough—"
Ace cut her off. "Quit it, Chaewon."