Chapter 7: An Unanticipated Relationship

The quiet that followed the gunfire was intolerable. The room looked like anarchy, broken glass and splintered wood reflecting the low light. Dante kept his eyes fix on the door, gun still poised and ready, his breath coming in brief bursts. Gunpowder smelled strongly, a sobering reminder of how near they had come to catastrophe.

Elena stood next him, her face white but set with will. Her hands shook from the surge of adrenaline coursed through her blood, but she looked at Dante without faltering. He saw not only rebellion but also trust, a trust that caused something in his chest to constrict uncomfortably for the first time.

Dante remarked, his voice low and anxious, "We have to move." Looking out the window, he sought for any indication that the battle had attracted unwelcome attention. Though the streets were shockingly silent, he knew better than to think the risk had passed.

Elena nodded, pushing away her anxiety. She was still getting used to the knowledge that she had repelled