Page 11 of Marc
“Okay, how about raven? Or wren? That suits you.”
Another watery laugh. “It’s really you?”
I turned my flashlight on my shoulder back on. It illuminated her dirty face, wide green eyes, and tangled red hair. “It’s really me. We’ve been looking for you, sweetheart.”
Then she buried her face in my neck and held on.
I wrapped my arms tightly around her. “You knew we were coming.”
“Yes, but I didn’t know when.” She shuddered. “There were so many monsters.”
“I’ve got you.” I pressed my cheek to her tangled hair. “I’ve got you.”
Zeke stepped into view. “I’ll tell the others we found her.” Turning away, he pressed a finger to his ear.
I just held Colbie’s warm body in my arms, grateful she was alive.
CHAPTER THREE
Colbie
To say I was relieved was an understatement.
Marc sat down near the cave entrance, still holding me. Even with his armor on, I felt the heat of him. Now that I was safe, I realized how afraid I’d been.
“Marc, my Talon?—”
“I know, wren. I’m sorry.”
I sucked back a sniffle.
“They’ll give you a new one.” He ran a gloved hand down my hair. “You’re the best pilot we have.”
I felt a flush of pleasure at his praise.
A moment later, Jameson and the others appeared. The squad leader had a smile on his rugged face. “Damn glad to see you, Colbie.”
“Me too. Thanks for coming.”
“Of course we came,” Marc growled, his arms tightening around me.
A thought hit me. “My parents. They must be so worried.”
“I already had Sasha relay that we found you,” Jameson said.
I relaxed. “Thank you.”
“Her leg’s hurt,” Marc said.
North crouched in front of me. “Hi there, Colbie. “
“Hi.”
The squad’s medic slid a backpack off his broad shoulders, then reached for my leg.
“This looks nasty.” He probed my cut, and I hissed.
“She needs painkillers,” Marc snapped.
