Kendell

My heart raced the moment Hector pulled the lever. I had hoped to get to it first, to spare Alexa the horror I sensed was coming—but he'd read my intention clearly.

The air was still.

She screamed, her body drawn slowly towards the flame. And for a second I saw the fire reflect in her eyes.

Then—she stopped.

Just before the flames touched her fully, her body jerked back.

I exhaled sharply and rushed to roll Alexa further from the fire.

Nana had acted, pulling the lever back with so ...