All the pieces fell into place. “Shit,” Teo hissed. Niya turned, brow knit in concern. “What?” “Aurelio’s slipups,” Teo said. “You know how he kept hesitating with the stone jaguars? And back there with the ahuizotl?” “Yeah, he really doesn’t like being wet—” “He’s used to being half of a team,” Teo pressed. Guilt and sympathy soured his stomach. “I don’t think he’s actually hesitating. I think he’s instinctively waiting for Auristela to step in.” Niya’s expression softened. “But she’s not there.” Teo’s chest ached. “Right.”
