The first time Ghost screamed.

A blinding flash lit up the back of the van, spilling over the cramped walls and turning every shadow into a jagged, trembling shape. His body jerked violently on the stretcher, muscles locked so tight it looked like his bones might shatter. Ben’s hands were already on him, gloves snapping, voice sharp and urgent.

“Stay with me, Ghost. Don’t you dare check out on me now.”

The van swayed hard as the driver swerved through Lagos traffic, engines howling, tires skidding over hot asphalt. Outside, the city roared with a blur of shouting voices, honking horns, and the deep thrum of motorcycles darting past like...