Page 117 of Blake

“I’m on it!”

Devon heard footsteps approaching, then Emmett appeared near the living room doorway. He had his weapon drawn, and the look on his face made her stomach twist.

She’d seen him serious before. Had witnessed the focused intensity he brought to every discussion about the people trying to kill her.

But this was different.

This was the face of a man preparing for battle.

Gwen moved into position near the far wall, keeping herself below the windows while watching the front of the house.

“Draven, SITREP,” Emmett ordered into his phone.

A burst of static preceded the other man’s voice.

“Ten hostiles. Two moving east, two west, and four others near the driveway. Jethro's got eyes on two moving out front, but he can’t get a clear shot.”

More gunfire erupted.

“Can you hold them?” Emmett asked.

“We’re working on it.”

Emmett looked at Blake. “Laundry room. No exterior windows. Gwen can stay with her.”

Blake nodded.

Devon grabbed his arm. “What about you?”

“I need to stay here to keep them from getting to you.”

Another shot shattered what remained of the front window.

“Move!” Emmett barked.

Blake helped her to her feet. Gwen moved ahead of them, keeping low as she crossed toward the hallway that branched off between the living room and kitchen. After confirming the passage was clear, she motioned for them to follow.

“Go!” Blake ordered.

Devon hurried after her, trying to ignore the pain that flared through her still-tender shoulder when she stumbled against the wall. They’d almost reached the laundry room at the far end of the hall when a deafening crash sounded from the kitchen.

Everyone froze.

A man’s voice shouted something Devon couldn’t understand.

Then came two rapid gunshots. Emmett immediately raised his weapon.

Someone’s inside.

Blake pushed Devon behind him.

“Get her in there,” he told Gwen.

The petite blonde grabbed Devon’s hand and pulled her toward the laundry room.

“Come on.”

Devon fought the urge to resist. Her eyes met Blake’s.