Reborn In a Murderer’s Embrace (Dexter and Phoebe) novel Chapter 391

"Everybody, gather around. Hear me out," rang out a voice that commanded attention.

Over there, James had already rallied a group around him.

Back in the days of the orphanage, he was the so-called group leader, and later on, he even became the class president at school. The guy had a knack for organizing, that's for sure.

"Listen up, folks. You've all seen what's happened on the floor above. Someone's dead. This isn't a game; it's a massacre. Someone's out to get us, and we need to fight back, not just sit ducks waiting for our turn to come... Otherwise, we might be next. We need to stand united. As long as we stick together, they can't pick us off!"

James was rallying the troops, getting everyone on the same page.

"If you want to survive, you'll follow the plan. We'll get through this together and find Caleb, make him let us out!"

"Let us out!" James shouted from atop a table, with the crowd echoing his call.

They were convinced Colin was the perpetrator, so they were all pumped to head downstairs and confront him.

I kept a wary eye on James. Now that he had rallied everyone, those of us who hadn't joined his cause were sure to be targeted next.

"Remember, we can only guarantee the safety of those who cooperate. As for the rest..." Sure enough, James was setting his sights on us.

It was me, Bran, along with Zoe, Annora, and Melody.

We hadn't picked sides.

"Those not with us are hiding something; we need to be wary," James spoke in a low tone, deliberately catching my eye.

I clenched my fists, knowing trouble was brewing.

As expected, Jaxon glared at Annora with fury. "What are you doing over there, woman? Get over here!"

Annora shrank back in fear, seeking refuge in Zoe's arms.

Zoe, protective and tense, knew Jaxon was about to make a move on Annora.

"Annora, get over here," Jaxon bellowed.

Annora sobbed, pleading, "Let me go..."

"Help!"

Her cries for help were met with apathy from the onlookers, as if this violence was none of their concern.

I took a deep breath and stepped forward, grabbing Jaxon's wrist. "You're going to kill her."

"I'll do what I want. Mind your own business. She's my wife; it's just a domestic issue if I kill her," Jaxon retorted, cursing.

Taking another deep breath, I realized the depth of Annora's despair. She must have called for help countless times before, but domestic violence... at most, it's seen as a public disturbance. All Annora got in return was more brazen beatings and threats.

In such circumstances, even dreaming of divorce was a luxury.

"Stop it... please," Annora wept, blood trailing from her mouth.

"You already caused her to lose one child; you want to beat her again?" Zoe, enraged, rushed over to shield Annora.