Page 48 of Brick's Retribution

The words hang between us, an admission that changes everything. Her eyes search mine, and I can see the exact moment she makes her decision.

She leans up and kisses me, soft and sweet this time, not the desperate hunger from earlier but something more sincere.

I should pull away.

I should remember what the goal is, what my responsibilities are, the dozen reasons why this is a bad idea.

But when she looks at me like that, like I'm something she cares about, it’s hard to stop.

The kiss deepens gradually, her hands sliding up to cup my face as I gather her closer.

When we finally break apart, both breathing hard, she rests her forehead against mine.

"Stay with me," she whispers. "Tonight."

"Imani," I start, but she silences me with a finger against my lips.

"I know what I'm asking. I know it complicates things." Her eyes are steady on mine. "But I need you. Not the protector, not the prospect on a mission. You, Brick."

The simple honesty in her words breaks the last of my resistance.

Whatever consequences come from this, whatever complications it creates, I can't deny her.

I can't deny us.

"Okay," I say.

She smiles then, the first truly carefree expression I've seen from her since this all started. It transforms her face, making her look younger, happier.

But our moment is interrupted by the sound of vehicles pulling up outside—multiple engines, moving fast.

Through the window, I can see headlights converging on the building.

"Shit," I breathe, grabbing my weapon. "They found us."

The moment of peace shatters as reality crashes back in.

We're not just two people finding comfort in each other—we're hunted prey, and the hunters have found our scent.

"How?" Imani demands, already moving to gather our gear.

"Doesn't matter now," I reply, checking the magazine in my gun. "What matters is getting out of here alive."

The sound of boots on the stairs echoes through the building.

Multiple sets, moving fast. Professional again, just like all the others.

"Back exit?" I ask.

"Fire escape," she confirms, pointing to the window facing the alley.

We grab our essential gear and head for the window. Behind us, I can hear doors being kicked in, systematic searches getting closer.

As I help Imani onto the fire escape, I can't help but think about what almost happened between us.

What should have happened, if we'd had more time.

But time is a luxury we don't have.

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