Chapter 17

A thunderous sound echoed through the night sky, the force of the impact hurling David's and Caroline's bodies forward with brutal strength. On instinct, David wrapped himself around Caroline, shielding her completely with his own. His arm held her tightly against his chest as her forehead struck his collarbone, followed by her soft, pained gasp. David comforted her by caressing the top of her head, saying, "It's okay. Don't be afraid." Then, harsh white beams shone through the rear window, flooding the car's interior in a blinding light. Through the glare, a tall, lean figure stepped out of the black sports car that had slammed into them. The figure walked toward their door and reached for the handle. The car door was locked, but Bradley didn't flinch. Through the glass, David could see the tense outline of his jaw, the fury twisting behind his eyes. Bradley raised his hand and gently tapped the window twice. Before David could react, Caroline lifted her head slowly in his arms.