94 Need to Breathe

I renew my efforts on the compressions, but Chase hasn't even twitched.

"But—" Aiden scrambles back. What a coward.

My hope for Chase falters in the same moment my rage at Aiden erupts. I lose my rhythm on the compressions completely as I scream, "You killed him! You killed Chase. Why? What makes you think you're . . . anything compared to him?"

I lose my breath completely, but the question only raises greater despair in me. While Aiden babbles some nonsense, I turn my thoughts—and my anger—on the Light.

Chase doesn't deserve this. Why would you let this happen? He's so good.

I'm stunned when a voice, rich and warm, bubbling over with a fullness I can only call love, sounds in my head.

There is no greater love than to lay down your life for a friend.

I suck in, arms shaking from more than the exhaustion.