Scott opened his eyes to an unfamiliar ceiling. He swallowed hard as memories of what had happened slowly returned—getting shot, then trying to crawl after Marshal while he held Ashley hostage.
Deep down, Scott knew Ashley had deliberately let her guard down.
That was what he had taught her.
"He's… dead, isn't he?" he whispered, his gaze still fixed on the ceiling.
He closed his eyes and drew a deep breath, his mind struggling to process what had happened.
How could he?
For decades, Marshal Di Carpio had reigned over an entire continent. He had been untouchable. But now… it all felt like a dream.
"Are you still not going to tell me why you stayed with him?"
A familiar voice suddenly broke the silence.
Scott slowly opened his eyes and turned toward the source. Ashley was leaning against the open window, her arms crossed. The curtains had been drawn aside, but the soft breeze still made them flutter behind her.
"You're here?" His voice came out hoarse.
