The engine growled under Travis's grip, his knuckles white on the wheel. The city thinned out around him, streetlights giving way to the long shadows of the warehouse district.
Every turn brought him closer, but not fast enough. His mind wouldn't stop spinning images of Alice walking straight into a trap, of hands on her, of her stubborn mouth getting her killed before he could reach her.
You should've been there. You should've stopped her.
The thought was poison, but it wouldn't let go. He slammed his palm against the steering wheel, the horn blaring into the empty street.
Then pop.
The sound was faint but distinct, even over the rumble of the car. A gunshot.
Travis's stomach dropped. Another shot followed, sharper this time. His heart kicked hard in his chest.
No. No, no.
He floored it, tires screeching as the warehouse loomed ahead. The building was a hulking silhouette against the dim sky, one rusted side door cracked open like an invitation or a warning.
