The Extinction Series , Higgins, Baileigh [best thriller novels of all time TXT] 📗

know the way. Plus, you could use my expertise.”

“We could, and we’d be happy to have you,” Seth conceded.

“I’ll go with you,” Imogen said, making her mind up on the spot.

“Your mom won’t like that,” Casey said.

“She’s not here.”

“I could fly you to Vancouver, and you could prepare the way for Seth and his group,” Casey reasoned.

“I could, but my mom’s never listened to me before. She’ll want to speak to them herself. Especially Seth, as he’s their ambassador.”

“Who’s your mother?” Seth asked.

“She’s the Mayor of Vancouver.”

“I see,” he said, his expression thoughtful. “Do you think she’ll help us?”

“She will, as long as there’s something in it for her, and by her, I mean Vancouver,” Imogen said. “Remember that when you talk to her.”

“Thanks for the tip,” Seth said.

“Are you sure about going with them, Imogen?” Casey said.

“I’m sure.”

“In that case, I have my own proposal to make.”

“What is it?”

“We have an infirmary stocked to the brim with antibiotics, painkillers, bandages, gauze, needles, IV bags, and lots more,” Casey said.

“Okay?” Imogen said, uncertain where she was heading.

“I propose packing it up and delivering it to Prime City. It’s not enough, but it might buy them some time. It could save a few lives, at least.”

“That’s not a bad idea,” Imogen said. “We can’t take it with us on the trip, which means it’ll go to waste.”

“I’m sure Prime would be exceedingly grateful,” Seth said.

“I’ll need a guide. Someone to show me where to go and who to speak to,” Casey said.

Seth looked at each person in his group. “Any volunteers?”

“I’ll go,” Paul said, raising his hand. “I don’t belong here. We all know that.”

“That’s not true. You’re part of the group,” Seth protested.

“I only came because of that stupid fight with Sandi,” Paul said. “And now, Brittany’s dead, and all I can think about is how little time I might have left. Time I’d rather spend by Sandi’s side. I’m sorry, guys, but that’s how it is.”

Rogue reached out and squeezed his hand. “I think we can all understand that.”

“Yes, you have nothing to apologize for,” Seth said.

“Then it’s settled,” Casey said. “I’ll pack up the supplies in the infirmary tonight.”

“I’ll help,” Paul said.

“Thanks. We leave at dawn. Make sure you’re ready,” she added.

“I will be.”

“Send our regards to everyone, and tell them we won’t fail,” Seth said.

“I’ll tell them,” Paul said.

Imogen pushed back her chair. “It seems we are all agreed on a course of action. Now, for the big question.”

Quizzical eyes turned to her.

“What’s for supper?” she asked, and laughter did the rounds. It lightened the mood and created a sense of solidarity. Something they’d need in the days to come.

Chapter 12

Rogue woke up to the sound of Seth snoring in her ears. She tried to move but found herself trapped within the cage created by his arms and legs. His weight pressed down on her chest, and she wiggled out from underneath with a gasp of relief. Once freed, she looked for her pants but gave up when she couldn’t find them. Driven by the siren’s call coming from the bathroom, she dashed across the hall.

Once she’d finished her ablutions, Rogue jumped into the shower, unable to resist the lure of hot water. She’d already had two showers the night before but relished the idea of another. The warm stream massaged her sore muscles and soothed the ache in her joints. A thick lather of scented soap completed the experience, and she watched the suds wash down the drain. The miracle of plumbing.

Ever since they’d arrived, she’d been amazed at the level of comfort contained within the living quarters. From the outside, the building hadn’t looked like much. It was just another square structure made from brick and mortar. But on the inside, it was like a wonderland, one she’d taken full advantage of.

Rogue dried herself with a towel and wrapped it around her body. With her shirt tucked underneath her arm, she returned to bed. Her bare feet padded across the carpet, and she slipped between the covers with a shiver. It was still dark outside, and everything was quiet. Peaceful.

“Where have you been?” Seth asked, stirring next to her.

“In the shower,” she said with a languid smile.

“Again?” he said with a chuckle.

“Again,” she agreed.

“What time is it?” he asked, reaching for the curtain.

“No, don’t look,” Rogue said. “Let’s pretend we can stay here forever.”

“That’s a pleasant thought. Too bad it’s not real,” he said, pulling her close.

“Sh, we’re pretending, remember?” she said, snuggling against his side.

“You smell nice.”

“It’s called soap.”

“I like it. You should use it more often.”

“Don’t be mean,” she said with a giggle.

“Sh, we’re pretending, remember?” he replied with a grin.

“Ass,” Rogue said, closing her eyes.

Within minutes, Seth had dozed off again, and she allowed herself to drift off as well.

An hour later, Casey banged on the door. “Breakfast in ten minutes!”

Rogue groaned and pulled the curtain away from the window. The sky had turned into a light grey, and the first hints of orange colored the horizon. “I guess it’s time to get up.”

“Why? Ten minutes is plenty of time,” Seth said, nuzzling her ear.

“You can’t be serious. Aren’t you tired after last night?” she asked.

“Not in the least. Are you?” he asked with a wink.

“No, but—”

“This could be our last chance in a while,” Seth coaxed.

“Fine,” Rogue said, allowing him to pull her close.

But, luck was not on their side. Seconds later, Paul barged into the room. “Come on, guys. It’s time to get up. There are pancakes for breakfast.”

Rogue’s head popped up. “Did you say pancakes?”

“Blueberry pancakes and syrup,” Paul said with a grin.

“I’ll be right out,” Rogue said, pushing back the covers.

Paul closed the door, and Seth said. “Are you serious?”

“Blueberry pancakes, Seth. Blueberry pancakes with syrup,” Rogue repeated with extra emphasis on each word.

He rolled his eyes. “Fine, I’m getting up.”

Breakfast turned out to be everything Paul promised and more: Blueberry pancakes with syrup, slices of smoked ham, fresh green apples, and coffee.

Rogue wasted no time. She