“Human light,” Pack Leader slurred. He indicated a flashlight lying wedged between the rocks. Howard leaped at it and switched it on. His hand shook so badly, the light danced across rock walls sending shadows flying like swift-moving ghosts.

Now even Drake seemed leery, frightened of something he couldn’t quite explain. He was asking questions, ever more agitated as they stepped into the icebox chill of the mine.

“Someone needs to tell me what we’re going to see,” Drake insisted.

“I need to know what we’re up to,” Drake said.

“Maybe we better talk about our deal,” Drake said.

“How much farther?” Drake said.

But all the while, they moved down the shaft.

Lana had to force each breath. Had to remind herself: Breathe. Breathe.

Patrick was gone. He’d abandoned them at the mouth of the mine.

“Man, I . . . I can’t do this,” Howard said. “I gotta . . . I . . .” He was gasping for breath.

“Shut up,” Drake snapped, glad to have someone to take out his frustrations on.

Howard turned suddenly and bolted, taking the flashlight with him.

Gone, Chapter 38