Terror And Relief

Meliza's POV

The world blurred around us as our feet pounded against the dirt, the towering stalks of corn swallowing us whole. The wind roared in my ears, drowning out the distant shouts behind us. Adrenaline surged through my veins, forcing my legs to move faster and harder.

Branches clawed at my skin, sharp edges tearing through my sleeves, but I barely felt the sting. Leaves whipped past my face, my breath coming in ragged gasps, but I didn't stop. I couldn't.

Behind us, the countdown was ending. And the hunt was about to begin.

Then we heard a loud bang. A gunshot split the air. The laughter stopped. The chase had begun.

"Whatever happens, don't stop running," I panted between breaths, gripping Jessa's wrist so tightly I feared I might bruise her.

"I—I don't think I can make it, Iza," she wheezed, stumbling. "I'm slowing you down."