XIX

Topi comes out first when I give them the signal that it is clear to move. He eyes the man with suspicion, but does not speak. The man barely looks him over; he knows he has strength enough to overpower us. If the Rage takes him, he’ll have more than enough. Topi and I work together to help Emilia up the ladder. As soon as she is upright, the man steps towards her. Topi and I block his route.

“How far along are you?” he asks, stopping only just on his side of the line.

I scowl, looking between him and Emilia. She looks away, her hands clasped in front of her, pulling her clothing more tightly over her front. If she had been injured, we would have known about it; there is no way she could be infected and we not know about it. The last time we saw a Rager was days ago. She would have turned by now.

“Two months?” He asked. “Three? More?”

“What are you talking about?” I begin. “People don’t last—”

“Three,” Emilia interrupted.

I look at Topi. He shakes his head before I speak.

“She’s pregnant. How did you not know?”

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