Fur, Cloak and Dagger (Team Greywolf 4)

“By now, Bolton must have placed a distress call. Another helicopter or ship is probably on the way.”

A fierce howl pierced the air.

Emma’s skin prickled. “It’s Saskia, isn’t it?”

“Yes. Let’s go.”

“Not that you know where you’re going, but lead the way.”

“I saw some kayaks behind the cabana.”

“You are kidding, right?”

Nik smiled. “Not kidding. Follow me.”

They dashed toward the cabanas. No such luck. A couple guards stood over the now chained kayaks. Bolton knew every means of escape. Still, Nik could easily take out the guards. Emma whispered, “When you take them down, we can change into their clothes.”

He shook his head. “There are trip wires around the kayaks.”

“Are you sure?”

“Please, Sparrow, it’s my area of expertise.” He pointed up at a palm tree. “Net will drop and capture.”

“So no kayaking then.”

He lifted his chin toward the mountains. “We’ll find another way.”

She gazed up at the mountains. “A temporary fix, but for now, our only alternative.”

They backtracked and headed up the trail behind the building.

Emma followed Nik into the thicket at the foot of the mountains. The sun rose. By now, Nexus must be close to the mainland. She hoped. The island was larger than she’d imagined. She looked down at the scorched rubble that was once a state of the art facility. Bolton’s chimera lab lay in ruins. Were they focused on putting out the fire or looking for them? Either way, they had to escape. Out of breath, Emma yelled, “Wait.”

Nik turned. “I’ll carry you.”

Rather than fight it, she nodded. “Okay, but only until I catch my breath.”

“Hang on.” He lifted her in his arms and dashed up the steep hill with the speed of a racehorse.

Before she knew it, Nik reached the top of the tallest peak. He gently set her down. Emma gazed down the steep cliff. “Can they scent you up here?”

Nik caught his breath. “Eventually. In fact, your scent has returned.”

“You can smell me already?”

“I’m afraid so. Vaporo must have a short lifespan.”

“About two hours.”

“Do you have any more?”

Emma dug out a vial from her lab coat pocket. “Last one.”

“Save it for an emergency.”

“Now is not an emergency?” She removed her gray bun and her mask.

Nik smiled. “I like your real look and scent.”