Chapter 282

Evelyn slammed the jack switch.

The car lifted rapidly under hydraulic pressure.

She grabbed the crowbar and wedged it into the door seam with brutal force.

Inside the driver's seat, Victor Ashcroft was barely conscious. The steering wheel had crushed his chest, blood trickling from his lips.

Evelyn quickly assessed his injuries—nothing immediately fatal.

Just as Victor slumped forward, a pair of strong hands steadied him.

Adrian Valentine had appeared out of nowhere.

Evelyn only paused for a second before turning to smash the passenger door.

Bang!

The door finally gave way.

Her palms were split open, blood dripping from her fingertips.

Julian Roscente lay unconscious in the seat.

"Wake up!" Evelyn yanked his shoulders, dragging him out.

Adrian moved to help.

Together, they pulled the tall man free.

"Move!" Adrian barked.

The explosion's shockwave sent all three sprawling.

Evelyn felt weight press against her back.

The familiar scent of cedar enveloped her.

"Are you hurt?" Adrian's voice was close, strained.

In the firelight, worry etched his features.

Her heart stuttered.

Then she steeled herself. "Not your concern."

Adrian staggered to his feet.

His white suit jacket was soaked with blood.

Evelyn's breath caught.

The metallic tang filled her senses.

He'd shielded her with his body.

An invisible fist clenched around her heart.

She forced herself to look away.

The three limped to Evelyn's car.

She tossed them止血药 from the first-aid kit.

Tires screeched against asphalt.

The hospital corridor lights glared sterile white.

Evelyn mechanically answered her phone.

"Evelyn?" Victoria's voice was tight with worry.

"Watch the children." Evelyn stared at the手术室's red light.

Silence.

"You're injured?" Victoria's sharp intuition never missed a beat.