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Then he turns his head.

I drop down, but it’s too late.

“Got you.”

Fuck.

I bolt.

Mercer comes down the bank after me.

I run, the rock still in my hand. Branches slap my face.

I hear him gaining on me. Of course he's fucking gaining.

My body is done. My legs are getting heavier with every step.

Something catches the back of my shirt. I scream and twist.

Mercer's hand closes around the fabric.

I swing. The rock connects.

He grunts, and his grip loosens.

I swing again. This time I hit the side of his face.

“Fuck!”

He lets go.

I stumble backward.

Blood appears at his mouth.

I stare.

I did that.

His eyes lift to mine.

Oh. That was a mistake.

Not hitting him. I'd do that again. Standing here admiring it is stupid.

I run.

He catches me three steps later.

His arm hooks around my waist.

We go down hard.

The rock flies from my hand.

I hit the ground on my side. Pain explodes through my shoulder. For one horrible second, I can't breathe.

Mercer rolls me onto my back.