Chapter 48: Ripped Away
Emily’s perspective:
Somewhere in the distance, the resonating tap-pop followed by a rebutting crack-tat are a blunt declaration that the looming war has come to fruition.
“Gabby, if you shift can you run?” I ask
“I can,” she creaks and makes a hobbled effort to prove her answer.
“Woah.” Austin reaches out in an attempt to catch her.
She manages to hold her footing. “Get your hand back. I got this.”
Austin throws his hands up and backs away.
“Can you run?” I ask again.
“Yes, but not full speed.”
Austin steps over to Gabby, puts his hands on her shoulders, and looks into her eyes like one who has bad news to deliver. He pecks her lips and looks at me. “Soon, it’ll all be over,” he promises. Gabby steals another kiss. Speaking to me, but keeping eye contact with Gabby, Austin stammers, “I. I’ll go. I’m faster. Ready for the fight. You stay behind. You. You run with her.” He clasps Gabby’s chin.