The small convenience store was silent except for Hana's soft breathing. She had curled up under a blanket, head pressed against Miko's arm, and within minutes she had slipped into a restless sleep. Her tiny frame rose and fell, the only sign of peace in a night that carried none.
The others weren't so lucky. Miko leaned against the counter with wide, tired eyes, chewing her lower lip. Ichika sat cross-legged, still hugging the walkie like it was a weapon. Suzune perched on a stool beside Riku, staring at the shutter as if she could see through the metal.
None of them could close their eyes. The fight earlier had left them all raw.
Riku adjusted the M4 across his lap and spoke in a low voice. "Tell me about those men. The ones from the hotel."
The girls froze at the words. Ichika looked away first. Miko glanced down at Hana, brushing a strand of hair from her forehead. Suzune let out a slow breath, shoulders stiff.
