Page 439 of Axis of Fire

"That isn't your decision to make."

My eyes narrowed.

"From what I've seen..."

"It isn't yours either."

For the first time since I'd walked into the room...

Eugene looked tired.

Not angry.

Just tired.

His lips pressed into a thin line.

"You may go."

He looked away, focusing on the paperwork scattered across his desk.

Lifting my chin, I turned and walked out.

Chapter 42

Anastasia Lang's POV

Fire.

It was everywhere.

Consuming not only our enemies—

but us as well.

Smoke swallowed everything.

I couldn't see.

Still, my eyes searched desperately for Ria.

For the fiery gown that had unfolded at the worst possible moment.

"Ria!"

My voice tore through the smoke as it rushed into my lungs.

I collapsed onto the scorching ground, coughing violently.

A hand pressed gently over my nose.

Fresh air.

Just enough to breathe again.

My eyes drifted shut.

When they opened—