Heroic Measures (continued)

Red pulled him into the shadows, passing through swathes of brightness of lightning ignited once more from above. Walter felt each strike as a searing stab through his mind, similar to a migraine, but it faded quickly to a dull ache. The adjustment that Red had made his headset seemed to be working.

They passed into another alleyway, headed for the street beyond. From what Walter could tell, they were heading deeper into the city, but away from the institute’s main entrance. A dark shape detached itself from the shadows. It was upon Walter before he realized that it was there.

His hands rose in defense, but fatigue and exhaustion dulled his reactions. Its arms were wrapped around him before he could respond. He was just beginning to realize how relatively weak its hold was on him when he felt something warm and moist against his mouth. His arm swung backward, ready to strike, when a familiar scent triggered on his consciousness. Before he could resolve his conflicting reactions, the pressure on his mouth eased.

“Oh god, Walter,” he heard Vivian say. She seemed nearly breathless with relief—or possibly from this unexpected kiss, Walter could not be sure. “You’re safe.”

Walter could only nod, feeling the warm, slightly sweet taste of her still on his lips.

“It’s a long story . . .” he began, finding his voice once.

“And you can tell us it later,” Red interjected, reappearing to tug on Walter’s arm. “We’re not safe here.”

Vivian gave Walter a lingering glance before turning away and darting in the direction that Red had indicated. Walter stared after her for a moment, still feeling slightly mystified. Red tugged on him again, bringing him fully back into the moment. Walter blinked several times at him and then shook his head to clear it.

“Good,” Red encouraged him. “Now move!”

Red broke into a fast trot. Walter remained close behind, keeping pace.

They met up with Vivian at the other end. She had stopped, remaining hidden within the angular shadows at the alleyway’s opening.

“I may have heard something,” she whispered, barely audible over the sound of the dripping rain. “I’m not sure.”