I’m helping my girlfriend escape. Nathan said back as if it were a normal conversation.
I watched as Ryland’s face blanked, before he turned to me, then to Nathan, and back again.
I chuckled at his shocked expression and looked up to see Nathan grinning at me.
Suddenly, the guard that I was currently holding in a headlock, ducked out of my hold and before I could do anything, he went behind the guard who was currently restraining Randy and poised his gun at the guard’s head. The other guard simply froze.
My jaw dropped. Guard turns on guard…
What the hell do you think you’re doing !? Ryland yelled at the younger guard.
I watched as his soft brown eyes snapped to mine. Sir, I’ve been kept here against my will and have been treated like dirt. I saw an opportunity to escape and I’d be stupid if I didn’t take it. The guard’s voice came out low and calm.
I held back a laugh from the stupefied expression on Ryland’s face, and offered the guard a small smile in a silent thank you.
Now, step away from the man. The young guard ordered the one in front of him.
I watched as the guard restraining Randy slowly stepped away from him and dropped his gun as the younger guard ordered.
The guard who was being held at gunpoint looked at Ryland expectantly as did the other five guards who were standing around, unsure whether to approach us and fight, or to stay put as Nathan could easily shoot Ryland, who could care less if they lived or died.
Well, what the hell are you waiting for ? Attack ! Ryland ordered the guards, taking us all by surprise.
Before Nathan could do anything, Ryland pushed him away, his hands roughly pushing on his injured torso. I cringed as I watched Nathan crumble forward in pain, clutching his ribs.
I dashed towards him without thinking and caught Nathan in my arms just as he collapsed forward.
No ! I cried, panic filling me as I tried to keep Nathan upright.
Go save your friend. I’m okay. Nathan wheezed out, pushing me away.
I stepped back to him just as he bent over in pain again.
I cursed under my breath, awkwardly hugging Nathan and keeping him from face planting. I looked up helplessly to see three guards surrounding us with their guns raised.
I looked around to see my mother free now and Randy currently untying Jess as Ryland was too busy frozen in his spot as he stared at the main entrance.
Confused, I turned to where he was looking. At first, nothing happened. Then, all of a sudden, a black jeep crashed in through the front doors.
I watched in shock and relief as I saw that red-headed chick step out of the car, followed by the same men from that day at the tree picking place.
Then, without warning, the men pulled out large guns and started shooting.
I quickly dragged Nathan off to the side and leaned him up against some boxes.
Hey, we’re going to be okay. Your ex-rival-gang’s here. I said to Nathan, leaning over him.
What- Nathan stopped suddenly and clutched his ribs, wincing.
I felt like crying.
Hey, don’t talk. We’ll get you some medical attention soon. I promised him, grabbing his hands that were clutching his torso and squeezing them. I was forcing myself to be calm and collected for him. In truth, I just wanted to run around screaming at someone to put him out of his misery.
He looked like he was about to reply but I quickly silenced him with a kiss.
I didn’t know where that came from. I guessed it was because I wanted to erase the pained expression on his face.
I closed my eyes as I felt his smooth lips moving gently against mine. I pulled away shortly, not wanting to hurt him. No more talking. I whispered, before leaning back again.
Nathan opened his mouth but snapped it closed as he saw the look I was giving him. He settled with an amused smirk and shook his head.
There you are !
I snapped my head to the side and stared at the familiar blonde in shock. Max ? What are you doing here ?
What ? Did you expect us to just leave you here and go home ? He asked me with an incredulous look, before breaking into a grin. Come on, let’s get you two out of here.
Wait, Nathan. I said just as Max turned to lead the way.
He turned back to me and looked at his brother, taking in a gasp.
I think he injured his ribs. It’s pretty bad. I explained, turning to look at him.
My heart stopped as I saw his eyes were closed. No.
Nathan ! I cried, suddenly grabbing his shoulders and shaking him. Nathan what the hell ? You just hurt your ribs, you’re not supposed to go unconscious ! You can’t do that dammit ! I yelled at him.
But to my relief, I watched as he slowly opened his eyes again and gave me an amused look. I was just resting babe, calm down. He shook his head.
I gave him an incredulous look. Well, don’t do that again ! You scared me ! I said, before standing in front of him. Max, help me.
Max came over to stand next to me and Nathan’s eyes widened in surprise.
Why do you all look so shocked ? Is it really that surprising for a guy to help out his little bro and girlfriend ? He said to us in a mockingly hurt tone.
Yes. Nathan answered right away as I chuckled.
Now enough dilly dallying. I wanted some Taco Bell but Tyler wouldn’t let us stop for any, he said we had to pick you guys up first. Now come on, I’m starving. Max said, before offering his hand out to Nathan.
Once Max and I had sandwiched Nathan between us with his arms around us for support, we cautiously made our way out.
Why are you limping ? Max suddenly asked Nathan, stopping and looking down at his leg.
I got shot. Nathan shrugged casually, smirking when Max’s eyes widened like two saucers.
I rolled my eyes.
Come on guys, at this pace we’ll never get out of here. I said, starting to move again.
That’s because we weren’t even moving. Nathan muttered.
If his ribs weren’t injured, I would’ve jabbed my elbow in his side.
Good thing I’m injured. Nathan said after, as if sensing my antics.
Oh don’t worry baby, I’ll make sure you’ll heal fast. I promised him with a saccharine smile.