The terrifying sound of grinding metal echoed through the quiet night air as the front of the heavy private limousine crumpled under the massive blow. Glass shattered everywhere, raining down on the cold asphalt like thousands of tiny diamonds.

Evelyn clung tightly to Julian’s chest, her heart hammering against her ribs like a trapped bird. Julian held her close with his broad right arm, shielding her face and head completely from the flying glass fragments.

"Are you hurt, Evelyn?" Julian asked, his deep voice miraculously calm and icy despite the sudden, violent impact.

"I am okay," Evelyn gasped out, her eyes wide with terror as she looked at the crushed...