Red Revenge

18. Gotcha

With renewed motivation, I continued my desperate escape, my breath coming in ragged gasps. But fate seemed determined to test me, as another obstacle materialized in my path, blocking the tunnel ahead. In a split-second decision, I veered sharply into another tunnel, my heart pounding in my chest as I sought refuge behind a row of cabinets. Concealed in the shadows, I pressed myself against the cold, hard surface, desperately praying that I had eluded detection.

Time seemed to stretch on as the footsteps of my pursuers echoed through the tunnel, their presence looming ominously in the air. The sound of their receding footfalls was like music to my ears, a fleeting moment of respite in the relentless pursuit that dogged my every move. Seizing the opportunity, I emerged from my hiding place, my legs carrying me forward with a newfound determination.

But the chase was far from over. As I sprinted through the winding tunnels, the sound of footsteps behind me served as a constant reminder that danger was never far away. With each passing moment, I pushed my body beyond its limits, driven by a primal instinct to survive.

Hazel's Pov:

As Hope urgently instructed me to run towards the stream located nearby, a wave of concern washed over me. Thoughts about her safety consumed my mind as I swiftly followed her command, my breaths coming in uneven and ragged gasps. Finally emerging from the dark and narrow tunnel, I used my vampire speed and ran towards the stream and found solace against the sturdy trunk of a tree, desperately trying to regain my composure. With my heart pounding in my chest, I gazed into the distance, hoping to catch a glimpse of Hope emerging from the dense thicket of bushes.

Suddenly, the piercing sound of a gunshot shattered the air, causing my worries for Hope to skyrocket. "Come on, Hope, where are you? Please be safe," I silently pleaded. After what felt like an eternity, my eyes finally caught sight of her figure emerging from behind the tangled branches and towering trees. Exhausted and struggling to catch her breath, she dropped to her knees, mirroring the state I had been in moments earlier.

Frantically, I blurted out, "Are you okay?! I heard a gunshot."

Amber managed to stand up, her voice filled with a mix of adrenaline. "Yeah, I shot at one of them. They were right behind me. In a moment of panic, I aimed for their shoulder. But we can't stay here. They were right behind me."

Hope's Pov:

Clutching onto Hazel's hand tightly, she led me through the dense woods, desperately seeking a safe haven to hide. The sun was gradually descending on the horizon, casting long shadows and signaling the approaching darkness. Knowing that the moonlight alone would not suffice for navigation, I was determined to find shelter before nightfall enveloped us completely. With each step, I could feel my heart pounding in my chest, urging us to move faster.

After what felt like an eternity of weaving through the trees and dodging branches, we stumbled upon a hidden gem amidst the wilderness. It was a small cave-like formation, constructed entirely from interwoven branches of trees, perfectly camouflaged within the natural surroundings. It beckoned to us, promising a temporary respite from the dangers that lurked outside. Without hesitation, we darted inside and settled ourselves on a weathered log, grateful for the concealment it provided.

As the adrenaline gradually subsided, my mind was flooded with the haunting image of my Lizzi'e body sprawled on the floor, a gruesome testament to the brutality we had witnessed. The sight of his blood staining the ground seemed to etch itself into my memory, refusing to fade away. Lost in my thoughts and overwhelmed by grief, I suddenly felt a comforting touch on my shoulder. Turning my head, I met Hazel's compassionate gaze as she gently wiped away a tear that had escaped my notice. Her simple act of tenderness reminded me that I was not alone in my pain.