14
IVY STEPPED THROUGH the jagged entryway that Bennett had smashed and chiseled from the brick enclosure. “There’s a staircase leading down.”
She paused on the landing to adjust to the darkness and the dank, musty odor. Mitch had raced to the truck for flashlights, which Bennett had told him he kept in an earthquake preparedness kit. She glanced back.
“Are you coming?” She’d rather not do this alone, even if it meant having Bennett by her side.
“Wait up, Ivy.” Bennett gulped a long drink from a water bottle Shelly had given him.
Perspiration beaded on his brow and upper lip, not that Ivy had intended to notice. His virility was overwhelming. She caught her breath and shifted her gaze. Yet, seeing how much effort Bennett put forth made her grateful for his help, though she and Shelly
