Page 31 of Hell on Wheels

I braced with his tone, immediately alerted something was wrong. Scanning the room, I noticed my dog’s absence for the first time. I’d been so caught up in Lark, and my injuries that I failed to see Kane wasn’t in the room.

“Where’s my fucking dog?” I asked, growling the words.

“Fuck,” Patriot cursed. “He’s in bad shape, Flint.”

“Define bad shape, Dale.”

He scrubbed a hand over his face, brushing the stubble that almost bloomed into a full beard. “He got injured during the attack.”

“Be specific,” I ordered, throwing my legs over the side of the bed. “Injured how?”

“Angel and one of his guys punched and kicked him. I tried to set the broken bones, but the injuries are severe, brother. I,” he choked, clearing his throat. “I don’t think he’s gonna make it.”

I shoved to my feet, shoulder-checking Patriot as I stomped from the room. “Where?” I roared, taking the hall too fast as my vision blurred on the edges.

“I didn’t dare move him. He’s in the common room on one of the tables. I’m trying to keep Kane comfortable.”

Fuck!

I managed not to pass out before I reached Kane, falling into a chair at the table as I reached for him, running a hand through his short, dark fur. His ears twitched, and a whine left his lips. I lowered my head, making eye contact as I stared into his big brown pools of warmth and unwavering loyalty. He’d always been an intelligent animal. Seeing the pain in the depths, I rested my chin on the table, staying locked to his gaze.

“I’m sorry, bud. I wasn’t there to protect you from those assholes.”

A little noise of agreement rumbled in his chest.

“I should have been there. You’re my best friend, Kane.”

Lark’s hand rested on my shoulder. “He knows. Look at the way he stares at you. So much love.”

“Yeah,” I grunted, almost tearing up. “Can’t lose him.”

“He’s a strong, brave boy.” Her hand slid over his fur and rubbed behind his ears. Her voice wavered as she sniffled.

Kane trembled, closing his eyes.

“I don’t want to leave him, Patriot.” Just the thought of taking the Devil’s Ride and missing his last moments tore me up. “Can’t do it.”

“Grim’s invitation won’t wait.”

“Then I’ll refuse it. Kane is more important right now. I’ll call a vet—”

“Already did,” Patriot muttered. “There’s not much we can do.”

Kane’s chest rattled as he breathed, a shallow, murky noise that worried me.

“Fuck,” I cursed. “Hang in there, Kane. I won’t leave your side.”

As the night wore on, his breathing grew shallower. He tried to pant, but the raspy sound accompanied by whimpers of pain broke my fucking heart.

Angel Mackenzie would suffer for this. He would scream for mercy, and I wouldn’t relent. There should be a level in hell just for those who hurt animals.

Somewhere close to dawn, Kane slipped away as his head rested on his paw close to my head. I watched the final exhalation of his lungs, unable to hide my tears as they followed.

“Kane,” I blubbered, crying so hard my shoulders shook.

Lark’s arms slid around my body from behind as I heard her sniffling. Her warmth brought comfort but no justice. Angel would pay severely for hurting my woman and my dog.

Suddenly furious, I shot to my feet, ready to confront that asshole and unleash some of the fury roiling within me.

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