Page 77 of The Vagabond

“She’s not going anywhere with you,” Zack says, stepping forward.

And suddenly I don’t know who I’m more afraid of—the two men in front of me, or the one beside me.

“It’s okay,” I say quickly. “They were just leaving.”

The shorter Fed frowns. The taller one shifts, half a step closer.

“We’re with a Federal task force. We need to talk to you.”

My stomach drops. My heart pounds.

“What do they want, Maxine?”

I ignore Zack’s question and direct my attention to the two Feds waiting expectantly in front of me. “I can’t help you,” I whisper. “Please leave me alone.”

“We can protect you,” one of them offers, as if that’s some magic spell that’ll change everything.

“Who says I need protection?” My voice cracks at the end, and I hate that they hear it. “Just leave me alone.”

The agents look between themselves, and then at Zack. And just like that, without another word, they disappear into the night.

“What did they want?”

I offer him a small shrug. “Damned if I know.”

Zack exhales, unconvinced I’m being honest. “Maybe you shouldn’t stay here tonight. In case they come back.”

“I’ll be fine,” I lie. Inside, my heart trembles.

He studies me, like he knows I’m full of shit. But he doesn’t press. Just gives me a tight nod and turns, walking off into the dark.

I don’t move until he’s out of sight. Not even a breath.

Then I fumble with my phone. My hands are shaking. I stare at Saxon’s name for half a second before I hit call.

He picks up on the first ring.

“Max?”

“The Feds were just here,” I whisper. “I think they’ll be back.”

A long silence travels down the line, heavy and cold.

“Are you okay?”

“They wanted my help. Just like you said.”

“Maxine…” His voice is steel now. Lethal. “Do not give them anything. If the Aviary even thinks you’re cooperating, they’ll come for you.”

“I know.”

“Are you safe? Where are you?”

“I’m outside my apartment. Zack was here; I think he spooked them.”

“Why was Zack there?” He asks me, and I can just see the crease between his eyes.

“That’s irrelevant, Saxon. He’s gone now.”

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