Page 80 of No Going Back

“Hey, babe. You hanging in there?”

“I’m trying to,” she whispered, looking at him.

God, she was beautiful. Even pale, gray, and covered in dust. She was gorgeous.

“Not much longer. They’ve almost cleared a way in.”

She nodded and her eyes filled with tears.

“Hey, come on, babe, don’t get upset.”

“I’m scared, Ty. I don’t want to die.”

Her words hit him like a slap in the face. While he knew it was a possibility, hearing her say it tore him up. “You’re not going to die, do you hear me?”

“It hurts so much. The pain. I can’t take it much more.” A small sob escaped her as more tears rolled down her cheeks. Tyler fought his own, not wanting her to see him upset, too. He needed to stay strong for her, reassure her. It was all he could do right now.

“Mira, I know it hurts. But you’re one of the strongest women I know. You can handle this.” He made himself smile.

“Not as strong as you think.” Tears still rolled down her cheeks.

“Are you kidding? I don’t know many people that can be in our ear when we’re on an op, think on the fly, rescue our asses when we get in trouble, without panicking or freaking out.”

He spoke with honest admiration. Jeez, Mira and Kelly often held the teams lives in their hands. When exfils went to shit, or plan A and plan B didn't work out, they were always there with another option. The teams owed these two women and Sam their lives. They couldn’t do what they did without them.

“It’s a bit late for you to sweet talk me now, don’t you think?” Her lips formed a small smile.

“Better late than never.” Tyler grinned. “So, tell me about your folks. You said they were in Miami. What do they do?” He wanted to keep her mind off the pain for a little longer.

“They own a bar.”

“Yeah? What kind?” He would never have guessed that.

“Regular sports bar. Big screens, pool tables, you know.” She paused, wincing in pain. “My dad bought it right after I was born. It was a dream of his. Mom went along with it, but now she loves it just as much as he does.”

“Maybe you can take me there sometime.”

Mira looked at him, her face suddenly serious. “I’d like that.”

Tyler glanced up to see Max walking toward them, at speed. He needed to apologize, but he also wanted to hear how things were going.

“Hey, babe, I’m just going to get an update. The rescue team leader is here. I’ll be right back.”

Max was talking to Dex, Liam, and Dale. Tyler joined them, taking note of Dex’s glare.

“Max, I owe you an apology. I’m sorry, man. I know you’re doing everything you can.” Tyler held out his hand.

“Apology accepted.” Max shook his hand. Fuck, that was easy. “Now, as I was saying. The elevator shaft is clear. I’m sending two men down to find out exactly what we’re dealing with. Do you still have a connection with your man down there?”

“Yes. I’ll get him back on.” Tyler said and the group moved back to the laptop. Sam was back in view. “Is Mira OK?”

“She’s out again.”

“Sam, this is Max. He’s in charge of the rescue operation.” Tyler introduced them.

“Max, any chance we’re getting out of here soon?” Sam asked.

“I’m working on it. Two of my team are coming down the elevator shaft shortly. What’s the situation at the bottom, by the elevator?”

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