Chapter 54
Mimi lay stuck in a crater, body half-sunk into the cracked crimson rock. The impact had driven her deep—shoulders and hips wedged tight, legs twisted at unnatural angles. Bones protruded from both shins—sharp white spikes pushing through torn skin and muscle, blood pooling dark and thick beneath her. Her breathing came in short, ragged gasps; every small movement sent fresh pain lancing through her nerves.
With haste Zain dug her out. His hands moved fast but careful—clearing rubble, prying stone away until he could slide his arms beneath her shoulders and knees. He lifted her into a princess carry, cradling her against his chest. Mimi's head lolled forward; her hair fell across his armor in sweat-damp strands.
"Ahhhhh!"
