Taking One For the Team
As I weakened another assailant, he fell with a thump.
I turned and saw that Max had taken care of one more on the other side of the clearing.
She was the second most efficient fighter in our flock and I didn't know what we would do without her.
Then I saw something that made me think we were about to find out.
One of the men held a revolver; it was aimed perfectly at Max's temple.
I shouted to her, but I didn't hear my voice, just my sudden pounding pulse.
I ran.
I couldn't let the inevitable happen.
I wouldn't.
I ran faster.
The collision when I reached Max knocked her down out of immediate harm's way.
I saved her.
I had taken her place.
I was standing directly in the man's line of fire.
Max screamed.
I surrendered my last breath knowing I could do no more.
There was a click followed by a thunderous crack.
An indescribably bright flash shone behind my eyes.
Life had ended before I hit the ground.