The speedboat sliced violently through the choppy, rain-lashed waters of the Hudson River, each powerful wave slamming against the hull with bone-jarring force. Cold saltwater spray whipped across Elena’s face like icy needles, mixing with the hot tears streaming down her cheeks. The roar of the engine vibrated through her chest, drowning out everything except the thunder of her own heartbeat and the haunting image seared into her mind: Damien on his knees in the pouring rain, surrounded by the three men who had torn her life to pieces.
Every crash of the waves felt like a personal punishment. The sharp, salty tang of the river filled her nose and mouth. Her clothes clung to her skin, heavy and freezing, while the wind howled like a vengeful spirit around them. She gripped the cold metal
