The impact of the iron chassis, weighing dozens of metric tons, created a gust of wind that swept the dust off the floor.
However, the darkness that had briefly loomed over Mark never quite engulfed him. Thanks to lightning-fast reflexes that acted before his fear could take hold, Mark managed to throw his body aside, rolling across the concrete floor slick with lubricant.
It was a matter of just a few centimeters. The massive bus chassis sank and came to a halt right at the edge of its wheel well, leaving only the sound of Mark's ragged breathing amid the cloud of panic.
"Oh my God! You're still alive, New Kid?!"
That panicked shout was followed by the pounding of boots rushing closer. Garrett led the group of mechanics, his face ashen. They stared in horror at the tilted bus, then turned to Mark, who was now calmly getting to his feet.
