CHAPTER 372

Elijah’s POV

I was rattled, my heart pounding not just from the adrenaline but from the shock of having used the weapon in my hand. It was the first time I’d ever fired a gun at someone. My training had kicked in—thankfully—but the reality of the situation was sinking in fast.

Thank God I carry a gun all the time now, I thought as my racing heart began to calm down. Ever since Sophia had been captured by Henry and Julia, I’d chosen to bring a gun with me everywhere I went. Better safe than sorry.

Emily was safe now, though, and that was what mattered most. I glanced over at her, still struggling to process what had just happened. Her eyes were wide with terror, tears streaming down her face. She looked confused, almost hysterical.

“Emily, it’s okay. You’re safe now,” I said, trying to keep my voice steady. “Where’s Sophia?”

Her sobs were shaky as she looked up at me, clutching my arm. “Sophia… Kayla… they’re still inside.”

“Okay, let’s go in,” I said firmly despite the tremor I felt