The heat from the explosion singed my face, and the acrid smell of burning fuel filled my nostrils. My ears rang, the sound of the blast still echoing in my skull. Elenora’s scream snapped me out of my daze.
“Noelle!” I called hoarsely, struggling to my feet. My vision blurred, and I staggered, clutching my side as sharp pain flared.
“I’m fine,” Noelle groaned nearby, her voice strained. She was on her knees, blood streaking her face. Belle was already at her side, her hands glowing faintly as she checked for injuries.
“Everyone, over here!” Fred’s voice cut through the chaos, commanding and clear. He stood a few feet away, his silhouette stark against the burning wreckage.
The flames roared higher, embers dancing in the night as the bus was consumed. Whatever hope we had for a clean e
