𝐄𝐧𝐝𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐬, 𝐁𝐞𝐠𝐢𝐧𝐧𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐬 | TWD [Book 1]

LXXVIII. The Bridge

On day 35 of the bridge construction, the Reapers maintain their vigilant watch, ensuring the safety of the workers laboring to rebuild the bridge. Progress is evident; the bridge stands nearly completed, a testament to their combined efforts. Initially, the Saviors resisted cooperation, but Madeleine's stern announcement that no Saviors would be permitted to leave the Sanctuary forced a compromise.

"Thank you for your help in the past month. You've been working hard since we united as the Reapers, and I'm grateful to you all." Madeleine's voice carries authority and gratitude as she addresses the Reapers assembled before her. They acknowledge her words with nods, a silent agreement and shared respect passing between them. "Alright! Back to work, Group 1 goes South with Alita and Group 2 on the West with Sergio."

"Let's go!" Alita exclaims, her enthusiasm infectious as she claps her hands to gather her group's attention. "The bridge awaits us."

Sergio, less enthusiastic, mutters under his breath, "It's certainly not going anywhere."

"Hold up, you two." Madeleine's tone demands immediate attention, halting Alita and Sergio.

Alita places a hand on her hip as she turns to face Madeleine, her eyes narrow slightly. "What's up?"

Madeleine's gaze is intense, her eyes flicking between Alita and Sergio. "Aliya told me there's been some conversations at the Sanctuary," she begins, her tone low and conspiratorial. "They're gonna try to slip through the cracks all at once. I want us all to be extra careful. Tell as few people as possible, keep your eyes open."

Sergio furrows his brows, his expression darkening. "You think one of us would help them?" he asks, his voice tinged with disbelief and a hint of accusation.

Madeleine's lips curl into a dangerous smile, her eyes glinting with a predatory light. "I think someone is putting up a good act. Five already managed to escape. Let's not make it to ten or I'll start hunting them all down," she asserts, shifting her gaze between Alita and Sergio, making sure they both understand the gravity of the situation.

Sergio's eyes narrow as suspicion hardens his features. "What if it's Aliya?" he suggests, his voice low and speculative.

He's had his doubts about her ever since the Saviors began trading with her and her friends. The thought that she might be a traitor gnaws at him, a seed of doubt he can't shake.

Madeleine's expression turns cold, her eyes like ice. "We'll find out, and they'll be punished accordingly," she concludes, her tone leaving no room for doubt.

Sergio nods slowly, a grim determination settling over him before he walks away from them, whistling sharply to get his group's attention. He hands out guns and clips with an air of grim resolve, his movements brisk and efficient. Alita watches him for a moment, her arms crossed over her chest.

"Keisha said she wants to talk to you," Alita states bluntly, but she doesn't look back at Madeleine, feeling the heat of her burning stare on her back.