The three exited the car, and Ruby and Bennett returned the swords to their back scabbards. As they did, both appraised their surroundings, ensuring none of Napoleon’s people were lurking in the shadows. Seeing no movement and hearing no heartbeats, Ruby and Bennett exhaled their relief in unison.

“Why are we here?” Lisa said, looking around.

“Have you spoken to your family yet?”

“No. The cell service was going in and out when I was talking to Max, so he said he’d call them. Why?”

“Because everyone is at your parent’s house except for Finn, and I’m sure at least one member of your family would like to see for themselves you’re okay. He’s inside.”

Lisa’s face brightened instantly. “Really?”

“Yes, really. Come on.”

Finn had just finished his twentieth lap of every aisle in the warehouse when he heard the electronic bolts on the door being thrown. He stopped in his tracks, and when he saw a familiar head of blonde hair, Finn raced to the door.

“Oh, my God,” he said, his arms opening as he ran to Lisa. “Happy doesn’t even come close, sis. It doesn’t even come fucking close.”

Finn almost knocked Lisa over when he threw his arms around her, and unwilling to let go, he kissed her cheeks over and over again. “I love you so much, sis. Christ, when I thought we lost you…”

“I’m here,” Lisa said, inhaling a whiff of her brother’s trendy cologne. Lisa had hated it once. She didn’t any longer. “I’m here, Finn, and I’m okay. Bennett had to turn me, though, but she saved my life by doing it.”

Bennett and Ruby traded looks, but neither said a word.

“And that’s all that matters, Lisa,” Finn said. “We all knew this was what you wanted. It’s just a little earlier than expected. That’s all.”

“So you’re okay with it?”

“You’re alive, Lisa. So you have to suck down some O positive every once in a while. Who cares? You’re still my sister,” Finn said, taking in Lisa’s face. “And you don’t look any different to me.”

Lisa extricated herself from her brother’s bear hug and summoned up a thin-lipped smile before taking a step back. She leaned against one of the racks, and a moment later, Lisa sunk to the floor.

Finn and Bennett were at Lisa’s side in a flash.

“Jesus, what’s wrong?” Finn said, giving Bennett a half-glance. “Bennett, what’s wrong with her?”

Lisa raised her eyes and looked at Bennett. “It’s happening, isn’t it?”

“Yes.”

“I’m scared.”

“I know you are, but I’ve got you, Lisa. I’ll help you get through this. I promise,” Bennett said, holding out her hand. “Now, up you go.”

“What’s going on?” Finn said, narrowing his eyes.