Page 117 of Eternal Craving

I nodded. “I don’t think reasoning with him is an option.”

Marcus slumped in despair.

Lilly leaned back against the brick and wrapped her arms around her legs and rocked.

“When did you last see your friend?” Marcus asked.

“Last night,” I said.

“What makes you think she’s here?”

“I have good reason.”

“Will you help us?” Lilly asked.

I gave her a nod. “I’ll try.”

“Evan must have made it out,” Lilly said. “I knew he would.”

While examining Marcus’ shackle, I marveled at my actions. I’d spent the last few months feeding off mortals, and here, now, as though compelled to heroism, I wanted to aid an escape. The thought of anyone in that torture chair motivated my valor. I grabbed Marcus’ slim wrist and eased it through the shackle.

I followed his stare and peeled back his trouser leg. His calf was badly deformed, the skin mottled and bruised.

“I’ve lost weight, so it was easy to pull my wrist out.” Marcus gazed off. “Last night, I headed down the middle tunnel.”

I cringed.

Marcus nodded.

“It’s sealed with some kind of clay,” I said.

“Wasn’t last night. They must have done it after they snapped my leg.”

“I’ll carry you.”

“You’re going to have to carry him, too.” Marcus nodded toward Ted.

I locked gazes with Marcus. “I’ll come back for you.” Then I glanced over at Ted. “What happened to him?”

“He thinks that one of them bit him,” Marcus whispered. “He thinks the man drank his blood.”

Ted stirred. “Hedidfucking drink my blood.”

“He’s been in and out all night,” Lilly said in a low voice.

Marcus gave me a pointed look. “Why aren’t you saving yourself?”

“I will, but I’m not leaving you down here.”

“Do you promise?” Lilly asked.

“I do.” I headed for the door.

Marcus grabbed my ankle and whispered, “Who are you really?”

“I already told you,” I said, pulling away.

Marcus ran his soiled fingers through his hair.” Why should we trust you?”