The Barter Novel Sierra and Xavier

---- His knee pressed against the edge, and with a final surge, he tumbled forwardhis weight sending Alex sprawling backward They collapsed together, Damien landing on top of her.

Their eyes met, both pairs wide with shock and exhaustion, their heavy breathing filling the narrow space.

Below, the monsters snarled and snapped, their claws scraping at the ducts edge.

We need to hurry! Alex said, urgency lacing her tone.

She took the lead, helping Damien maneuver through the tight passage.

Ilis wounded leg left a trail of blood behind them, but neither dared to stop.

Soon Damiens breaths came in sharp, labored gasps, his body trembling with the effort to keep moving.

He was loosing too much blood.

Alex, despite her own exhaustion, pressed on, her grip on his arm firm as she guided him forward ---- Chapter 463 through the twisting duct.

The monsters growls and the scrape of claws against metal echoed ominously behind them Faster, Damien, Alex urged, her voice trembling with urgency.

They're gaining.

Ie grunted in response, his jaw clenched against the searing pain in his leg.

The blood from his wound soaked through his pants, leaving a slick trail that made it harder to find traction in the confined space I'm...

trying.

he rasped, his voice raw with exertion.

Alex glanced back, her crimson eyes flickering with concern as she caught sight of his pale, sweat- drenched face.

The sight of him struggling twisted something inside hera strange mix of guilt, fear, and an unyielding determination to keep him alive.noveldrama

We're close, she lied, her tone meant to reassure both of them.

Liar, Damien muttered under his breath, a ghost of a smirk tugging at the corner of his lips despite the ---- pain.

Alex huffed but didnt respond.

She couldn't let him give innot now.

They moved carefully through the duct, each creak of metal sending a shiver down Alexs spine.

After what felt like an eternity, a faint light glimmered ahead Relief surged through her veins as she pressed forward, the air around them growing fresher.

Finally, they emerged from the duct into the open, the forest greeting them with its towering trees and the earthy scent of moss and damp soil.

The moon hung high above, its light filtering through the canopy.

But their reprieve was short-lived.

Damien staggered as soon as they stepped onto the forest floor, his body giving way under the weight of his injuries.

Alex rushed to his side, catching him just before he collapsed.

His face was pale, beads of sweat dotting his forehead, and the blood from his leg painted a gruesome trail behind them You've lost too much blood, ---- Alex murmured, her voice thick with worry.

No shit, Damien rasped, trying to push her away.His eyes steer up to her and he grits his teeth to warn her this time.

Leaving no end for negotiation.

Go.

Leave me.

Or I will make you.