The wolf whined, probably worried about his blown secret.

“I don’t have time for foolishness now, hun. Get your butt closer to me so I can protect us on the way out.”

He slunk closer and pressed up against Tabitha’s legs, trembling.

“Let’s go.” She brought the shield of water back up again.

They stepped from the locker room into a nightmare. Flames were devouring the stands and carpeting the wooden floor. They covered both doors, the rear door frame having already collapsed, making escape that way impossible.

And Tabitha was getting tired.

It was easier to do one big action than weave several smaller magics at once. Her arms were like lead, and she almost stumbled over her feet, but she had to get the children to safety. Had to keep that shield up. Had to carry Luna.

Maybe she should have doused the fire, rather than trying to protect her secret. Too late now. The secret would be blown the moment they walked through the door, even if she dropped the water the instant they were through. No one could walk through fire and remain unscathed.

With a heavy sigh, Tabitha tightened her hold on the magic and Luna grabbed Cole by the scruff of the neck. Then they hurtled through the door, Tabitha dropping the water once they cleared the flames.

Not quick enough.

Click-click. Click-click.

“Jesus mate, did you see that?”

“Not sure what I saw, but I think I got it on video.”

Fuck!