The morning was getting brighter, and the soft light of dawn was starting to pierce the horizon, casting long shadows across the road.
In Rick's car, the driver noticed Vaughn's car in the rearview mirror. He turned to Rick, his voice tense. "Boss, a car is following us."
Rick glanced over his shoulder, his grip tightening on Eliza. "Lose them," he commanded.
The driver nodded and slammed his foot down on the accelerator. The engine roared to life, and the car surged forward. Vaughn, seeing their sudden burst of speed, shifted gears and increased his speed as well, his eyes locked on the car ahead.
Eliza, bound and gagged, noticed the car following them. From the small window, she could see it was Vaughn. Hope surged within her, and she began to make soft, muffled sounds, trying to get his attention despite the tape over her mouth. She struggled against her restraints, but Rick held her down with a cruel grip.
