Jason nodded once to Beryl and turned with Khemrys, a surprisingly solid presence behind her as they left the apartment and headed to the car. He opened the car door and helped her in, then walked around to his side.

The text message for Eric could wait.

"You ok, Khem?" he asked gently.

* * *

The only reason Nat knew they had left was he felt when Jason's energy left the room. His chest felt tight as he breathed and he growled again uncertainly. "They tried to take you away," he rasped.