53. Take Care of Them

Antonio dragged the man to his feet, pushing him towards River, who stood up slowly, his body shaking either from rage or loss, it was hard to tell. As the man stumbled in front of him, River stared into his eyes, searching for any sign of remorse. There was none. “Look at her!” River roared, pointing at Ellie’s body. “Look at what you’ve done!” The man’s eyes darted toward Ellie, then quickly away, but not before a flash of satisfaction flickered across his face. That was all River needed. He lunged forward, grabbing the man by the collar and connecting his fist with the man’s jaw. The man groaned. Blood trickled down his nose, but the smirk on his face didn’t change. River pulled back his fist and struck the man again. And then again. “River! Stop!” Antonio intervened, pulling him back. “Not here.” He paused, breathing heavily, his fist still raised. Slowly, the fire in his eyes dimmed as he looked over at Ellie again. “You’re right,” River said hoarsely, turning away from his captiv