Adam charged through the gardens behind Bao, his steps carving charred prints into frozen soil. Desmond's boots crackled with frantic lightning behind him, his face contorting a little more with each second.
By the time Bao halted in front of Teacher Lilia's botanic greenhouse, a furrow sundered Desmond's forehead in three ravines. Shadows wrapped around the creases, clouding the teenager in worry and guilt. Guilt at failing to protect his sister's friend. At least, that's what Adam saw in his rage.
In other times, if anyone but Quintella went missing, he would have comforted his friend. It wasn't your fault. You did well noticing something amiss with her and having my back.
Not this time.
The teachers and college staff who didn't identify the impersonator didn't matter. Neither did Haldris, whether he knew about it or not. All that mattered was saving her.
Inside!
