C176 No one's dying today

Xavier’s heart was pounding, and his footsteps thundered as he descended the stairs. The scene before him was a twisted tableau: Avery’s arm was outstretched, her gun aimed directly at Cathleen, his wife, but Cathleen stood firm, unflinching, like stone.

"Aaa, right on time, babe," Avery cooed, her gaze sickly sweet upon Xavier