David burst out of Lena’s building, keys already in hand, heart hammering against his ribs. The rain had started, light at first, then heavier, drumming on the roofs of parked cars. Lena ran after him, hoodie up, laptop bag slung across her body.
“David—wait!”
He didn’t slow. He reached the SUV, unlocked it, jumped in. Lena yanked the passenger door open and slid inside just as he started the engine.
“Seatbelt,” she said, clicking hers.
David didn’t answer. He floored it, tires screeching on wet asphalt as they peeled out of the compound.
He hit dial on Xavier.
Xavier picked up on the first ring. “David—”
“Where are you?” David asked, voice tight.
“Already on the way to the supermarket. Carolina and Miranda are still there. Police arrived. They’re asking questions. Carolina’s shake
