Raisel’s POV

The gunshot echoed in my ears, loud and final, and I braced for impact, squeezing my eyes shut. Instead of pain, I felt the weight of Soren’s body shield me. A low groan slipped from his lips, his frame slumping against mine. I barely registered Hazel’s screams or the police shouting as they finally arrived. All I could see was Soren, his eyes fluttering, consciousness slipping away.

“Drop your weapon!” the officer yelled at Alaric, but Alaric’s gaze remained locked ...