Page 78 of Mine To Hunt

I hesitate for another moment. But their energy slowly pulls me in despite the exhaustion. A small smile creeps onto my face.

“Okay.” I say finally. “I’ll try it.” I point at them both. “But if I’m terrible… You’re sworn to secrecy.”

Maddie snorts as she hops out of the car. “No promises.” And she’s already heading toward the entrance.

Inside, we’re handed heavy vests fitted with sensors and sleek laser guns. The gear feels strange in my hands, unfamiliar but intriguing. I adjust the straps, tugging at the vest until it sits comfortably against my chest.

"Ready?" Maddie asks, tightening her own gear.

I nod, nerves buzzing under my skin. "What exactly are the rules?"

"It’s a free-for-all." Al explains. "About fifty players in the arena. Shoot to tag people out. Last one standing wins."

"Survive first." Maddie adds. "Then get aggressive."

Adrenaline starts to stir as the doors slide open and we step into the dimly lit maze. The air feels cooler inside, shadows stretching across narrow corridors. An announcer’s voice crackles over the speakers.

"Players, the game begins now. Good luck."

The signal sounds, and suddenly everything sharpens.

At first, I move cautiously, every sound making my heart jump. My grip tightens around the gun as I hug the walls, peering around corners, more focused on not getting hit than on hitting anyone else. The thrill is there, tangled with lingering fear, but it’s different. Contained, purposeful.

"See anyone?" I whisper to Maddie as she keeps pace beside me.

She shakes her head. "Not yet. Stay close."

A sudden movement catches my eye. Someone tries to slip past us, and before I can second-guess myself, I shoot. The sensor on their vest lights up.

"I got one." I whisper, surprised. "I actually got one."

Maddie beams. "Nice, Ree. See? Natural."

With each passing minute, something loosens inside me. The fear fades into the background, replaced by focus, then excitement. I start moving faster, reacting instead of hesitating. Another tag. Then another.

"This is actually fun." I admit breathlessly to Al as I tag someone else out.

He laughs. "Told you. Now don’t get cocky."

Soon the arena grows quieter. Only a handful of players remain, tension thickening with every echoing footstep and stray laser shot.

"We might actually win this." Maddie murmurs.

Suddenly a laser shot slams into my back, my vest shrieking as red lights flare across it. I stumble a step, startled.

"Got you, Ree." Al calls out. "I’m so sorry."

I laugh, hands dropping as the vest signals I'm out. "You sneaky jerk. Unfair play."

The game ends moments later with Al declared the winner. He throws his hands up in triumph. "Victory is mine. Dinner’s on me tonight."

Cheers break out as we exit the arena, flushed and smiling. Something warm settles in my chest. Lightness I haven’t felt in days.

At the restaurant, the lights are soft, the food rich and comforting. Steaks, salads, glasses clinking together.

"To normalcy." Maddie says, raising her glass. "And to friends who refuse to let you spiral."

"And to Ree kicking ass next round." Al adds.