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CHAPTER XXVII. Can't Save You Again
Elina crouched just outside SHIELD headquarters, her heart pounding like a war drum in her chest. The air was thick with anticipation, every second dragging out as she waited for the signal. Her mission was clear-get to the launch stations and stop the nightmare before it could begin. Her mind raced through the plan, every detail etched into her memory like a map to survival.
The moment she heard Steve's voice over the PA system, her pulse quickened. It was time. She straightened up, steeling herself for what was to come, and slipped inside the building. Her movements were swift and purposeful, avoiding eye contact with the agents she passed, keeping her head down but her senses sharp. The long, gleaming blade strapped to her side was a beacon of danger, impossible to miss, and she could feel the weight of curious, suspicious eyes on her as she moved deeper into headquarters.
As she approached the door to the launch room, her hand hovered over the handle, ready to push it open. But before she could, a strong hand clamped down on her wrist, stopping her cold. Instinct took over-she spun on her heel, pulling a small knife from her belt in one fluid motion. In a flash, she twisted her assailant's arm behind their back and slammed them against the wall, the edge of her blade pressed to their throat. Her breath was ragged, adrenaline coursing through her veins as she prepared to strike.
Then, she recognized the face staring back at her, wide-eyed and startled. It was Xavier. The recognition made her hesitate, her grip loosening slightly, but Nick's warning echoed in her mind: Anyone could be HYDRA. Trust no one. Her jaw tightened as she kept him pinned to the wall, her eyes narrowing in suspicion.
"Whoa, Elina. What's wrong with you?" Xavier's voice was calm, but his body remained tense, not daring to move a muscle.
Her voice was cold and distrustful. "Can I trust you?"
He gave her a look that was equal parts disbelief and hurt. "I've known you for three years, Elina. If you can't trust me, who can you trust?"
The words struck her, but she knew the risk she was taking. Slowly, she lowered the knife, releasing her grip on his arm. "Where have you been? You're wanted by SHIELD!"
Xavier glanced around nervously as Steve's voice continued to echo through the PA system, laying out the grim reality of their situation. He seemed to piece things together quickly, his expression hardening.
"Got it," he muttered before turning on his heel and walking away, leaving her to face the danger that awaited her in the launch room.
