Last Chance

Mason’s heart raced when he saw Xenia holding a small bomb in her hand, ready to throw. He moved to stop her when their eyes connected, and Rodin pushed through.

“No!” Rodin roared. “I will not let you hurt her.”

“Rodin, I’m not going to hurt her!” Mason snapped, pushing him back down. “That much, at least.”

Mason held up his hand to stop Lillian and Celia, who were coming up behind him. He kept his eyes on Xenia as she moved to the tunnel’s center, blocking their way. She paid no attention to Lillian and Celia. She kept her eyes trained on Mason.

“Xenia-”

“Don’t come any closer, or I will bring this place down,” Xenia said, holding the bomb above her head.

“Bullshit,” Lillian said. “Your mother is not that far, and an explosion would collapse this entire tunnel and kill everyone. Her included. I know you don’t want that to happen.”

“I would rather her die here than be your prisoner,” Xenia countered, momentarily glaring at Lillian.

“Xenia, I don’t want to fight,” Mason said a