"He meant what he said."
Yelena's voice, as steady and emotionless as a machine, cut through the tense air between them. She was already on her feet, a stark contrast to Eric and Jimmy still panting on the ground.
"Don't let him get to you."
She added, looking toward the sky.
The city was finally at peace, but a huge portion of it lay in heavy destruction. The chaos had quieted, replaced by the somber sounds of people emerging from hiding.
Some were spectators, their faces etched with shock and awe, while others were helping the injured, their hands frantic as they searched for survivors. In the distance, the sirens of emergency vehicles began to wail.
Jimmy walked to Eric and helped him up. Eric's body was truly sore and painful, but he endured it, a grimace on his face. Jimmy gently placed Eric's arm around his shoulder, taking his weight, and they walked toward Yelena, joining her as she stood.
"It's good to see you, Yelena. We were afraid you—"
