Winona’s hands gripped the seatbelt as Nile’s car followed Officer Daniels through the morning traffic. Juliana and Felix trailed a few cars behind, headlights slicing through the sunlight.

"God, please… the plane hasn’t left yet." Winona breathed, heart hammering in her chest.

Nile’s calm focus made her panic spike. Every stoplight, every honk, felt like a countdown.

The airport appeared ahead, bathed in morning light. Her stomach sank. Were they close enough?

The line of ...