Page 151 of Betrayal and Vows

"The mountain pass is treacherous this time of year," Dmitri says quietly. "Snow, ice, wolves. And that's before you factor in the border guards."

"I know."

"You could wait until summer. Better weather, clearer paths?—"

"We don't have until summer." I turn to look at him. "You know that."

He nods, his jaw tight. We both know Vadim's reach is already extending into these remote areas. Every day we stay increases the risk of discovery.

"I should come with you," he says for the third time since we made this plan.

"No." My voice is firm. "Someone needs to stay behind. Muddy the trail. Make them think we went a different direction."

"Bullshit excuse and you know it."

He's right. The real reason I want him to stay is selfish. If something happens to me on that mountain, if I don't make it, I need to know someone will come looking for Lena. Someone will make sure she reaches safety.

But I can't say that out loud. Dmitri would insist on coming, and then we'd all die together instead of just me.

And if I don’t make it back, Dmitri will carry out my plan for revenge.

He’ll kill Vadim and Mikhail.

"Promise me something," I say instead.

"Anything."

"If you don't hear from us in two weeks?—"

"Anton—"

"Two weeks," I repeat firmly. "If you don't hear from us, assume the worst. Get yourself somewhere safe and disappear. Don't try to find us. Live."

His blue eyes flash with anger. "You think I'd abandon you?"

"I think you're the smartest man I know, and smart men know when a cause is lost." I grip his shoulder. "Promise me."

"Fuck you."

"Promise me, Dmitri."

Lena steps out.

It’s a cool morning, but it will warm up by the afternoon. I’m hoping it doesn’t get too cold tonight. There is always a chance of snow, but let’s hope it doesn’t happen.

We’re really doing this.

Three days through the Caucasus Mountains. Smuggling ourselves out of Russia like fugitives.

We are fugitives.

Lena’s bundled in a coat that’s too big, her hands buried in sleeves. Her eyes are fierce when they meet mine. Not scared.

Not yet.

She looks determined.

And angry.