Code Name: Untraceable

Chapter Twenty: Line in the Ash

Frankie stood at the far end of the room now, weapons checked, pack zipped, boots laced like she was preparing for war.

The photo still glowed on the screen behind her, but none of the Thunderbolts could look at it anymore.

Bucky took a step forward. "You don't have to go dark again."

Frankie didn't even look at him.

"You've all got yourselves into my mess," she said calmly. "And now, before they start tracking you too, I suggest you leave."

Bob shifted where he stood. "But-"

"This is my battle," she cut in. "And I need to deal with it."

The silence that followed was thick. Heavy.

Yelena scoffed, half-hearted. "You know we're not exactly the 'leave someone behind' type."

Frankie turned to her slowly. "Then start learning."

John frowned. "You're seriously kicking us out after we just found you?"

She shrugged. "You weren't supposed to."

Ava stepped forward, eyes narrowed. "And you think pushing us away will keep us safe?"

Frankie gave the faintest of smiles. It didn't reach her eyes.

"No. But it might keep me sane."

Bucky clenched his jaw. "You think you're still alone in this."

Frankie met his eyes now, cold and calm.

"I know I am."

Then she opened the far door-quiet, clean, calculated-and motioned toward it.

"Get out before you become collateral."

She didn't shout.

She didn't plead.

She just waited.

And the worst part?

She really believed she was doing the right thing.