Page 77 of Marc
Another threader rushed us.
Without any hesitation, Colbie whirled the gun around. It looked way too big in her hands. She fired.
The threader leaped to the side, trying to get out of the way. But Colbie kept firing until it collapsed.
“Fire the net,” she yelled. “I’ve got your back.”
With a nod, I went down on one knee and lifted the net launcher. I dragged in a deep breath, aiming at the struggling threader. It was almost free of the first net.
I pulled the trigger.
Whoosh.
The net slammed into the threader. It screeched.
“North, sedative,” I yelled.
Spinning, I grabbed my carbine from Colbie. I kept her close as we advanced on the trapped threader.
North appeared with an injector in his hand.
The threader was thrashing wildly.
“I need you to hold it down,” North said.
I pressed my palms to the threader’s torso. It hissed at me and bucked. It was still fighting, and damn, it was strong. Then Colbie’s hands pressed beside mine. With no fear or hesitation, she helped me hold the monster down.
North jammed the injector against the threader’s side.
It bucked wildly, but then its movement slowed. I pushed down harder.
Finally, it stilled.
Thank Christ.
Colbie dragged in a shuddering breath and sat back.
“Threaders are all neutralized,” Jameson said.
“You did well, dove. Sure you don’t want to trade the cockpit for a carbine?”
She shot me a small smile. “I think I’m fine in my Talon.”
Fuck. She was okay.
I pulled her close and kissed her. She was still for a second, then she kissed me back.
After, I pressed my forehead to hers. “I’ve been an idiot.”
“Marc—”
“I was afraid. I was afraid to care too much about you, terrified I couldn’t keep you safe, afraid I’d lose you.”
Her face softened. “You keep me safe, Marc. I never feel safer than when I’m with you. And you aren’t alone. You have an entire squad to help you.” Her chin lifted. “Not to mention, I’m pretty good at taking care of myself.”
“This isn’t casual, Colbie.”
She licked her lips. “Okay.”
