Chapter 25

Jeremy rubbed the nape of his neck, moving his palm in soothing circles as Brendan emptied his stomach. He straightened slowly and wiped his mouth, but bile still burned the back of his throat, and his stomach still heaved in horrible ways. The smell of his own vomit began to spread through the small space, almost triggering his gag reflex again.

“Can you walk?” Jeremy asked.

Brendan nodded.

“Okay, that means we’re done here.” His touch was still gentle, but his voice was firm.

He didn’t protest this time as Jeremy led him up the stairs. Raider seemed to take some invisible cue from Jeremy, too, not stopping when they reached the kitchen. He led the way out to the front porch and back to the morning sunshine.

Brendan took a long, shuddering breath through his mouth. “I’m sorry.”