Under The Gun

The city lights blurred past as Derek drove them through winding streets, every nerve on edge. Makayla sat close, her eyes scanning the shadows outside the window.

“We’re running out of options,” Derek muttered, voice tight.

Makayla reached over, gripping his arm. “We’ll find him. Together.”

He glanced at her, feeling the fierce determination that first drew him in years ago. She was unbreakable—even when faced with her darkest past.

Suddenly, Derek’s phone buzzed. It was Prentiss.

“Morgan, we’ve got a lead. Surveillance caught a man matching your ex’s description near a warehouse on 14th. He’s armed and dangerous.”

Derek’s jaw tightened. “We’re going in.”

Makayla stood, steady despite the pounding in her chest. “Let me come.”

Derek shook his head. “Too risky.”

She held his gaze. “I’m not your liability.”

For a moment, they stared, the weight of everything between them.

Finally, Derek nodded. “Alright. But stay close.”

They moved through the shadows, adrenaline heightening every sense. The warehouse loomed ahead, dark and silent—except for the faint sound of footsteps inside.

Derek signaled for Makayla to stay behind while he scouted ahead.

But before he could take a step, a sudden shout echoed, and a gunshot rang out.

“Makayla!” Derek shouted, rushing toward the sound.

She was on the ground, clutching her side, eyes wide with shock.

He dropped beside her, pulling out his phone to call for backup, heart pounding.

“Stay with me, babygirl,” he whispered, voice raw.

Her fingers curled weakly around his.

In that moment, Derek knew this wasn’t just a case anymore.

It was personal.