Chapter 50 Ethan
Ethan
Everything sharpens.
Hayes.
Alive.
Watching.
The world narrows to a single point.
“Location.”
Ava doesn’t hesitate.
“Three blocks east. Rooftop access.”
Ronan cuts in.
“Split team—”
“No.”
The word lands hard.
Final.
“I’m going.”
Aaron huffs a breath.
“Of course you are.”
“Ronan holds here,” I continue, already checking my weapon. “You finish the shooters.”
“And you?” Ronan asks.
I rack the slide.
Cold.
Ready.
“I end it.”
A beat.
Then—
“Copy.”
Because he understands.
This isn’t just strategy.
“Ava.”
“I’m here.”
Her voice steadies everything.
“Guide me in.”
A pause.
Then—
“Always.”
I move.
Fast.
Through chaos.
Gunfire still echoing behind me, but I don’t slow.
Her voice anchors me.
“Right alley—now.”
I turn.
“Stairwell ahead—skip the main entrance.”
Already moving.
“Two on the landing—”
They’re down before she finishes.
“Roof door’s locked—”
“It won’t be.”
One shot.
The lock shatters.
Door swings open.
Cold air slams into me—
And there he is.
Standing at the edge.
Still.
Waiting.
Like he knew.
Of course he did.
“Ethan.”
Like we’re meeting for a drink.
Not a war.
My grip tightens.
“Hayes.”
He smiles.
“Welcome back to the game.”