#Chapter 197: Showdown

Charles The air crackled with the raw power of the spell. The gun he held clattered to the ground. His body collapsed like a marionette with cut strings, twitching every so often. Blood splashed and spurted out from his neck, covering Cecil as she fell to the ground with a soft sob. The scent of blood, metallic and raw, filled my nostrils, but it was quickly forgotten as I rushed forward and scooped her into my arms. She was cold and shivering as she sobbed into my arms, clinging to me and trembling. Something in me sighed in relief. I stroked her hair and tucked her close, trying to get her warm and shield her from the rain. “It's all right. I'm here now. You're safe.” She rumbled, burrowing into my arms. Father. My heart clenched as I tucked her close and stepped back towards the jeep. The surge of protectiveness washed through me and stole my breath away. It’s all right... I rumbled gently. She sighed, seemingly falling asleep. You’re safe now. “Get out of the car!” The dri