Montez’s first thought was fury, not at her, but at himself. He should have known she’d follow. He should have guarded the door, guarded her. She had already endured too much violence in her life; she didn’t need to see this.

“Amira…” His voice was low, unsteady for the first time. He took a step toward her, his hand half-reaching out.

Her head shook in horror, her breath sharp and uneven. “You…you killed him.”

Montez’s hand curled ...