18
Caleb…
He’s still inside…
My mind buzzed with a deafening hum.
My rationality shattered, then instantly reassembled itself.
It turns out, when a person is on the verge of collapse, to cling to that sole lifeline, they can become terrifyingly calm.
I had only one thought: I *had* to save him.
I took a step forward, but Julian seized my wrist, pulling me back.
His long lashes trembled, his eyes full of pleading.
“Anya, don’t go. He’s sure to die today.
“I beg you, come back to me. Let’s leave this place together.”
“Is that so? Then I guarantee, you’ll die before him.”
I raised my hand, plunging the dagger into his neck without hesitation.
Using his dodge as an opportunity, I broke free and rushed into the blazing inferno.
The flames scorched the air, making breathing almost impossible.
I screamed Caleb’s name, pushing open every door, only to leave disappointed.
I don’t know how long it was until I finally heard a faint human voice.
The door was locked.
I forced myself to calm down, trying to break the lock with my knife.
“Caleb, just wait. I’ll get you out right away.”
Through the door, his voice was muffled and unclear.
“I’m fine. You go first. I’ll be out soon.”
I deep breath, but the emotions I’d held in check for so long finally broke in that instant.
My hand trembled so much I could barely grip the knife hilt.
“Caleb, who are you kidding?
“If you could get out, how could you possibly leave me alone in this fire?”
