Jaxon's chest was still thumping hard, but the worst had passed. For the first time since the chase began, he had a moment to breathe.
He looked back and saw Isabel and Cindy slumped in their seats. Blood stained their clothes, and their faces looked worn and pale. "You guys alright?"
Isabel forced a small smile and nodded. "We're okay."
"Natasha?" Jaxon asked, turning his head to the driver's seat.
"I'm fine," Natasha replied, eyes fixed on the road. Even after escaping, she stayed alert, her hands tight on the wheel.
Only then did Jaxon feel some of the weight lift from his chest. Still, worry lingered. They had been inches away from death.
"We should've used the drone earlier," he muttered, cursing himself for not thinking ahead.
He leaned out the window and looked toward the other van. The vehicle was battered, its body dented and windows shattered. Elena met his gaze and raised her hand, signaling that everyone was alive. Jaxon nodded back, relieved.
