Blood.
Then I see Stefano’s SUV lying twisted in the ditch and my heart stops.
I run.
“Amelia!”
No answer.
“Stefano!”
Nothing.
Foster’s behind me, calling for medics, police, Spike, anyone who can move faster than death.
I reach the SUV and see the empty back seat.
Blood on the glass.
A small smear on the torn leather.
Livy’s sparkly hair clip lying near the floorboard.
“Maverick!”
Foster’s voice drags me around.
He’s kneeling on the road several feet away…beside Stefano.
My brother lies on his back, one hand pressed weakly against his chest.
Blood spreads beneath his fingers.
Too much blood.
“Stefano.”
I drop beside him.
His eyes are half-open, unfocused, his breaths wet and slow.
“Brother.” I catch his face between my hands. “Stay with me.”
He’s trying to tell me something, but nothing comes out.
“Don’t speak.” My voice breaks. “Save your strength.”
But he tries anyway.
Of course he does.
My sweet brother, bleeding out on a dirt road, still trying to tell me something.
His hand twitches against mine.
I lean closer.
“What? What is it?”
