Chapter 22: Before the First Step
Dylan’s words hung in the air, carried away only by the heavy sound of his footsteps. He was carrying Maggie’s wounded body on his back. Breathing in deeply, he took another step.
The silence stretched a moment longer, until a figure appeared between the trees—Élisa, leaning against a trunk. She had both suitcases with her—one on the ground, the other strapped to her back. She was awkwardly holding Dylan’s pistol, her arms trembling as she saw them approach.
Dylan met her gaze and saw the panic take hold as she realized Maggie’s condition. Élisa’s eyes widened, frozen in place, until Dylan finally laid Maggie down, gently resting her against the tree.
She wore only a bikini top and military pants. The top, torn to shreds, no longer covered anything of use.
Dylan rummaged through Maggie’s bag and pulled out some bandages and first aid supplies. Dropping to one knee, he slowly pulled her toward him... and froze for a moment when he saw her back.
Claw marks. Bite wounds. Blood everywhere. Her back was nothing but a raw, red mess.
The tiny cotton pad soaked in alcohol he held... felt completely useless.
His hands trembled.
He looked up. Maggie’s eyes met his—cinnamon brown, dimmed by pain.
"Commander, you’re gonna have to grit your teeth."
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