Nathan held Fiona firmly against his chest as he climbed the basement stairs, each step echoing in the hollow building. Her hands clutched weakly at his shirt, her fingers barely curling, trembling uncontrollably.
He adjusted his hold, keeping one hand pressed protectively to the back of her head so she wouldn't bump into the walls as he moved through the narrow corridor.
"Stay with me," he whispered into her hair. His voice was steady. "I know you're tired. I know, cupcake. Just a little longer."
She didn't respond with words—she couldn't. Instead, a small sound escaped her, something between a whimper and a breath. Her face stayed hidden in his neck.
Nathan's heart broke all over again.
When he pushed the building's main door open with his shoulder, Caleb immediately jumped from where he was crouched near the office car with two guards.
His eyes widened.
"Nathan…" Caleb whispered as he rushed toward them. "Is she—did you—?"
Nathan didn't stop walking. "She's alive."
