Tenfold Retribution

Chapter 18: Shadows of Betrayal

Rick's shoulders squared as he narrowed his focus to the figure of Mark, still outside the chaos, pleased grin all over his face.

“Mark!” The noise of the ongoing skirmish was cut through by Rick. “What are you doing here?”

The rest of the chaos around them was a total contrast to Mark's casual gait as he stepped forward. He replied, his voice dripping in sarcasm, “Just thought I’d come see how the night was going.” “It’s not like you’re having the best of luck.”

Rick had reared his fists and was hanging in spite of anything. “This isn’t a joke. You’re the one behind this, aren’t you? You set us up.”

“Me?” He even raised his hands in mock surrender, grinning now in feigned innocence. “I’m just an interested party.” I’d be more worried about your little family if I were you. ‘It’s a dangerous world out there, Rick.’”

Rick could feel Laura's unease beside him and then the tension thickened in the air. “We’re done playing games, Mark.” No matter what you think you’re going to do here, it