Chapter 81

• Howard's heart slammed against his ribs like a trapped animal. Time fractured—horns blaring, tires screeching, the world narrowing to Charlotte's oblivious form steps from oblivion. "Charlotte!" he roared again, voice raw with primal fear.
• She turned at the sound, eyes widening in confusion—then terror—as the car's grille loomed massive, headlights flashing like predator eyes. Frozen for a split second, her feet tangled.
• No time. Howard exploded into motion, legs pumping, hotdog remnants forgotten. He launched himself across the asphalt, slamming into her mid-stride with brutal force. His arms locked around her waist like iron bands, hurling them both sideways onto the grimy sidewalk. Asphalt bit into his shoulder; her body crashed against his chest. The sports car thundered past, inches from their heels, brakes howling too late as it swerved wildly, clipping a hydrant in a spray of sparks and water.