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It was what had kept humans fighting against the aliens, against overwhelming odds.

Jess was worth the risk. She was worth everything.

I heard muffled sounds, but my brain floated away. I couldn’t focus.

Don’t give up.I shoved against the cocoon. I’d give anything to see Jess and my friends again.

Suddenly, light speared into my eyes.

I blinked, my vision blurry. A flashlight was shining in my face.

“North, oh God.”

Jess’ face filled my vision, for real. Her mouth was bracketed by tense lines. She had a knife in her hand, hacking at the cocoon.

Then Jameson was there, tearing the stuff away.

I dragged in a deep breath. Sweet air filled my lungs.

The sticky substance gave way and my body tipped forward. Jameson and Zeke caught me and lowered me to the ground.

“Just breathe.” Jameson pressed fingers to the side of my neck.

I managed another breath, and the wooziness started to clear. Jess was right there, her hand cupping my cheek

“Monster…dragged me off,” I rasped out.

“Take it easy.” Emotion filled her gaze. “God, I was so worried.”

“I’m okay. Help me sit up.”

They helped me up. In front of me, I saw three people huddled together.

“We found the guards,” Jess said. “One was dead.” She rubbed a hand over my back.

I glanced at the remains of the cocoon and shuddered. “It was two of those creatures we saw in the cave. They spray out the sticky substance.”

“Hell,” Jameson growled.

“Yeah, I don’t recommend it.”

Jess gripped my arm. “You’re okay.”

I let my gaze trace over her face. “Yeah, I am now.”

“How about we get the hell out of here,” Jameson said.

I nodded. “Sounds good. I’m fine to move.”

Jess grabbed my hand, and I let her help me up. I was feeling steadier with every second.

Kai stepped forward and held out my carbine. “I think this belongs to you.”

“Thanks, Kai.”

Jess stepped in front of me. “You sure you’re okay?”

“Yeah.”