But Nyx's critical condition takes priority over satisfying curiosity. Time slips away with each moment spent contemplating Jinx's sudden appearance and crypticrevelations. The steady sound of Kieran's footsteps fading into the distance serves as a reminder of what truly matters.
Atlas maintains perfect stillness beside me, his covered gaze oriented unerringly toward our potential threat despite physical blindness.
His posture speaks volumes about the assessment of the situation – ready for either diplomatic discussion or immediate violence depending on Jinx's next move.
The tension stretches between us like a drawn bowstring, waiting for the smallest pressure to release devastating consequences.
"Get to the point," Atlas commands, natural authority flowing as he takes control of the situation.
His leadership in tense confrontations has always outshined my own, tactical precision perfectly suited for delicate negotiations where one wrong word could trigger catastrophe.
"Two weeks," Jinx states with a military crispness that speaks of extensive training. "That's all I can offer. If you're compatible with Nyx and want her as your Omega, I'll know what to do."
Confusion ripples through me at this unexpected proposition.
The casual way she offers her sister's future strikes a discordant note against tactical surroundings and urgent circumstances. Her clinical detachment while discussing Nyx's fate raises hackles I didn't know I still possessed.
"You're setting us up with your sister? For what?" Disbelief colors my tone as implications stack up. "You don't know who the fuck we are. We're special ops. We're murderers." My hand gestures encompass our blood-stained reality. "We're probably double her age."
"My sister doesn't need boys in her life," Jinx cuts through my protests with surgical precision, each word carefully chosen."She needs men who don't waste time. Alphas who aren't using Omegas just for their own benefit." Her eyes narrow fractionally, assessment clear in their depths. "She's willing to sacrifice her life in captivity to save one of your own. She's loyal, despite the world never being loyal to her."
The truth in her words stings – Nyx's willingness to trade her freedom for Vale's safety demonstrates a character that transcends normal omega behavior.
Her sacrifice speaks of strength we've rarely encountered in any designation.
Most Omegas care about themselves, their futures, their financial abundance, and the comfortability of their lifestyle. They don’t want to struggle, let alone sacrifice themselves for a group of men they just met.
"Why weren't you loyal to her?" Atlas's question carries deadly calm that raises the hair on my neck.
I catch the telltale twitch of his left index finger – the same hand that's broken countless faces when righteous fury overcomes careful control. His rage at child predators and those who harm innocents carries the same intensity as the current situation.
"My loyalty will reveal itself soon enough." Jinx shows no reaction to implied threat, maintaining perfect poise despite tension crackling through the air. "Until then, you simply play house for two weeks and the truth will be revealed. That's all I'm requesting of you."
Our silence speaks volumes as she adjusts the weapon strap with practiced efficiency that suggests years of combat experience. The sniper rifle moves like a natural extension of her form rather than added equipment.
"You have to go. My unit can't hold off those fuckers much longer." Her tactical assessment carries a ring of truth.Unit? What unit is she talking about?"The owner is already pissedhe has a blade in his arm. Don't need him messing with the Blackwoods. My Father's involvement will be but a pain."
The casual mention of the living family sends ice through my veins. Parents who allowed –perhaps even orchestrated– Nyx's years of torture. The implications stack up like bodies after a firefight, each revelation adding weight to an already complex situation.
"So your parents are alive." The words taste bitter on my tongue, carrying an accusation of complicity in acknowledging Nyx’s suffering that could have been prevented.
"Yes." Simple confirmation suggests a game is far deeper than a surface rescue operation would indicate. Her tone reveals nothing about the nature of family dynamics or the reasons behind the apparent abandonment of twins to years of experimental torture.
Each moment spent in this standoff costs precious seconds of Nyx's survival chances, yet something about Jinx's presence demands attention – as if pieces of a larger puzzle hover just beyond comprehension.
Her knowledge of our histories, casual mention of Kieran's lost brother, clear military training, and tactical support unit – none of it adds up to a simple rescue operation. Something larger moves beneath the surface, suggesting a chess game where we've yet to identify all players or true stakes involved.
"All you need to know is our Mother will know the truth. When Nyx is ready to confront her, the option will be available," Jinx's words carry finality as she turns away. "Take her to Astrological Holmes Medical. It's one of the best centers for tactical recovery. They have a specialized omega unit. Tell them she's a Blackwood. They'll ensure premium care."
She takes two measured steps before pausing, tension rippling through her frame.
"Your friend. The spasming one."
The reference to Vale's condition draws our full attention. Something flickers in her eyes – the first genuine emotion I've witnessed crack her careful mask. The change transforms her features, making the resemblance to Nyx even more striking.
"He doesn't have long to live. I suggest prompt medical intervention. Holmes has a specialized unit capable of treating his condition before it reaches his heart."
Clinical assessment carries an undertone of her admission.