*Isla*

Maddox runs to me looking just as worn out as me and Poppy are. We’ve dragged Antony over a mile along the beach back to the city, praying that someone would see us and help. Hot sun beats down on us as I watch my mate close in, his eyes narrowed and mouth parted in surprise.

“Is he–”

“He’s dead,” I say quickly, the words tasting like pure acid on my tongue. Maddox pauses, his eyes meeting mine.

‘Are you going to save him?’ he asks through our bond so only I can hear his question. It’s a hard one, if I’m being completely honest. Do I give this...