The adrenaline still thrummed in Avery's veins as she and Reyna left the roaring crowd behind. The Neon District's streets glimmered with post-race lights, but the world felt quieter, more intimate somehow.
Reyna's usual fierce posture softened as she walked beside Avery, shoulders relaxed, fingers brushing accidentally against hers. Neither pulled away.
"You really had me on edge back there," Avery said, voice low.
Reyna smirked. "Only edge I want is the one that keeps you close."
Avery laughed softly. "You're impossible."
"I'm your impossible now."
They paused beneath a flickering holo-sign, the colors casting gentle shadows across their faces.
"I meant what I said before," Reyna whispered. "If I survive, I want more. With you."
Avery stepped closer. "I want that too. But this world… it's dangerous. You can't trust anyone."
Reyna's eyes darkened. "Not even me?"
"You're the one person I'm willing to gamble everything on."
Their hands finally intertwined, fingers lacing tightly.
A sharp noise echoed nearby—a motorbike engine revving too close. Both tensed, turning to see Nova approaching fast, a grim expression shadowing her face.
"We've got a problem," Nova said without preamble. "The rival gang's not done. They're planning a strike on your garage. Tonight."
Reyna's jaw clenched. "Then we prepare."
Avery nodded. "Together."
As the city buzzed with neon lights and distant sirens, two riders stood side by side, ready to face whatever came next — enemies behind them, love ahead.
--