Chapter 57

Inside, the warmth enveloped Joe like a shroud and he was grateful for it. He blew into his hands, watching guards fuss over Justin. Maybe the young man would be all right, after all.

A guard noticed him and frowned. “Why isn’t this inmate in shackles?” He grappled for his keys. “There’s just been a revolt! Two prisoners are at large, and this inmate is standing there―”

“Wait. Wait.” The older guard raised his hand. “I’ll escort the prisoner to the infirmary. Get a grip, Jack. This is Vega. He helped me carry the kid all the way here.” He turned to Joe. “Come on, let’s get you checked out.”

Dodging the hateful glares from the under guards, Joe was escorted down the hall, alongside Justin, to the infirmary. The events of the last hours were taking a toll on his nerves, and Joe could see his hands were shaking badly. He couldn’t feel the bottom half of his face. Black dots were dancing in his eyes. He needed a cot. Water.