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“Go with Gwen, Dev. It’s going to be okay.”
His gaze held hers for one brief moment, then he turned and followed Emmett back toward the kitchen. Gwen ushered Devon into the small laundry room and closed the door until only a narrow opening remained.
The washer and dryer occupied one wall, while shelves stacked with cleaning supplies lined the other. There wasn’t a window, and the only way in or out was through the door.
Under ordinary circumstances, Devon would’ve appreciated the lack of places for someone to sneak inside. Right now, it felt like a trap.
Gwen stood beside the doorway with her pistol raised.
“Stay behind me.”
Devon backed toward the washing machine. From somewhere down the hallway came the sound of furniture crashing, followed by another gunshot.
She flinched.
“What’s happening?” she whispered.
“Not sure yet.”
Gwen’s calm tone did little to settle Devon’s nerves.
She’d almost convinced herself she could handle another attack. Gwen had taught her how to break free if someone grabbed her. Blake had helped her believe she was stronger than her fear.
But none of that training had prepared her for being trapped inside a house while armed men tried to murder everyone she cared about.
A sharp crack sounded from somewhere nearby. Gwen stiffened as footsteps pounded down the hallway.
Blake’s voice rang out.
“Winslow!”
“Here!”
The door swung open.
Blake stood on the other side, his pistol in one hand. A shallow cut marked his cheek, and the shoulder of his shirt had been torn.
But he was alive.
Devon nearly collapsed with relief.
“Oh, thank God.” She rushed toward him, wrapping her good arm around his waist.
He held her for a brief second before gently pulling away.
“We’ve got to move.”
She looked up at him. “Where?”
“Garage. Emmett’s clearing a path.”
Gwen stepped into the hallway, keeping her eyes peeled. “What are we looking at?”
“One down inside,” Blake informed her. “At least two more outside. Draven and Jethro are keeping them busy, but there was movement around to the back.”
“Then we’d better hurry.” Gwen met his stare.
Blake took Devon’s hand and guided her into the hallway. They moved quickly, keeping close to the wall. The laundry room was at one end of the hall, while the opposite led past the kitchen to the mudroom and attached garage.