Chapter 102

“Here's what we do,” the leader declared, his voice heavy with authority, after receiving the order from Linda. The dimly lit of the safe room cast shadows across his hardened features, accentuating the intensity in his eyes. “You, Nadine, will go meet your boss, Howard, or whatever his name is. You're to ask for the antidote and, if necessary, kill him. We'll provide transport support. Remember, if you don't secure it within 24 hours, we'll begin executing members of your pack, one every minute. So, don't do anything foolish.”

“He won't give it,” Nadine protested, her voice tinged with a mix of fear and defiance.

“Then your pack dies. Later, we will hunt you, and you'll meet the same fate,” the leader retorted, his grip tightening on Nadine's collar. His eyes bore into hers, unyielding. “You started this mess; it's up to you to end it.”

***

I was in deep discussion with Linda, the glow of the computer screen casting a pale light on my faces. “The poison knife was given to Nadine, who