Before I could say another word, Blake lunged forward.
I didn't even have time to explain the situation to Eric before he shoved me aside. The next second, he stepped up, locking into a fierce struggle with Blake.
I watched their clashing silhouettes, my instincts screaming at me to jump in and help.
Eric was tall and well-built, never one to slack off on training. Physically, he had the upper hand and could overpower Blake without much effort.
But Blake was desperate. To keep his identity from being exposed, he was fighting with reckless abandon, throwing everything he had into this struggle.
Then, I heard it—the sharp wail of approaching sirens.
Relief surged through me. The police were getting closer.
Within moments, officers flooded the building, securing all possible exits.
"You're surrounded! Surrender now and don't make this any harder on yourself!"
The officers' voices rang from every direction.
Even though Blake's face was hidden behind his mask, I could feel the wave of despair radiating off him. And then, he snapped.
Seizing the split second when Eric glanced my way, Blake lunged.
No!
My heart clenched.
Eric was standing right by the window. If Blake tackled him now, he'd be sent crashing straight out.
"Eric, watch out!"
My panicked cry jolted him back to his senses, and he twisted away just in time. But it was too late. Blake's fingers had already latched onto his sleeve.
In the blink of an eye, they both vanished out the window.
"Eric!" I screamed his name, my heart slamming against my ribs. I bolted to the window and looked down in horror.
I saw Eric's eyes barely open, his gaze hazy but steady.
I let my vulnerability show for the first time in front of him. "If it weren't for me, you wouldn't have gotten hurt this badly."
He mustered the strength to comfort me despite his pale complexion. "I'm fine," he murmured.
At that moment, the doctor lifted his injured arm slightly, and a sharp hiss of pain escaped his lips.
I tensed, my hands clenching.
Noticing my panic, he forced a reassuring smile and reached out with his uninjured hand, gently taking mine. "I really am fine. Don't worry."
His voice was soft but had an undeniable steadiness, which settled the storm inside me.
I held his hand without moving, and neither of us let go—not until he was wheeled into the operating room.
Only then did I force myself to push down my worries and cooperate with the police to give my statement.
Comments
The readers' comments on the novel: Revenge is best served cold