Page 42 of Concluded (The Bureau #13)

A chilles knew as soon as he heard the knock: it was time.

He pulled the hinge out of his pocket, where he’d kept it for days, and clutched it tightly.

Oddly, he wasn’t nervous or frightened. He’d made up his mind about what he was going to do, and at this point, the outcome was out of his hands.

He’d done his best. Now it was all up to fate, or luck, or the brave and wise actions of his lover.

As quietly as possible, Achilles rolled off the couch and onto the floor, curling into a loose fetal position.

He whispered his wish.

It took effect immediately, paralyzing him and cutting off all feeling from his body. His vision dimmed and then darkened completely, his hearing began to fade, and unconsciousness pulled him inexorably into its fathomless chasm.

Just before he plunged completely, he heard Dee utter a single word.

“Mom?”