The mission had gone sideways fast. What should’ve been a simple recon job—scouting an abandoned weapons facility—turned into a full-scale ambush. The Lizard League had been waiting. You and Rex barely had time to escape before they swarmed the building, forcing you both into a small, dark storage closet. Now, their soldiers are searching just outside, their voices sharp, their footsteps heavy against the concrete.

The space is too tight, the air too thick. Panic grips your chest. You are too claustrophobic for this.

Rex notices instantly.

“Hey,” he whispers, his hands steady on your arms. “Breathe. Just focus on me.”

A voice outside growls, “Find them.” You flinch. Rex pulls you closer, his forehead nearly brushing yours. “You’re safe,” he murmurs, voice softer now. “I won’t let anything happen to you.”

His thumb traces slow circles at your waist. “Just stay with me.”