Surviving the Waves

Chapter 3 & 4

Chapter 3: Leading the Charge

Without missing a beat, Darius turned to the group. "I'll lead the T-Rex away. You guys get to the metro station, get on the train, and wait for me there."

"What? Darius, no—" Brooklyn started to protest, but Darius cut her off.

"No time to argue. We need to move now!" His voice was firm, and he avoided making eye contact with her, knowing that if he did, he might hesitate. He couldn't afford that—not now. "I'll be fine. Just stick to the plan."

Kenji opened his mouth as if to say something but then nodded, clearly conflicted. "Be careful, man."

Darius gave a tight nod, already turning to face the approaching T-Rex. "Go. I'll catch up."

The group hesitated for a moment, but then, under Kenji's urging, they started making their way toward the metro station. Darius could feel Brooklyn's eyes on him, but he didn't look back. He couldn't let himself get distracted.

As the T-Rex drew closer, Darius took off in the opposite direction, making as much noise as he could to draw its attention. His heart pounded in his chest, but adrenaline kept him focused. The T-Rex roared again, and Darius risked a glance over his shoulder to see it following him.

Chapter 4: Escape and Isolation

Leading the T-Rex away was easier than Darius had expected. The massive creature lumbered after him, its attention fixed on the noise he made as he darted between trees and over fallen logs. Every step he took, his thoughts raced back to Kenji and Brooklyn. Even in the midst of danger, he couldn't shake the sting of hearing they were together now.

He couldn't help but wonder how long it had been going on, if they'd been keeping it from him this whole time. The betrayal he felt wasn't just about Brooklyn; it was about Kenji too. They were supposed to be best friends.

After leading the T-Rex far enough away, Darius made a sharp turn, slipping into the dense undergrowth. He crouched low, holding his breath as the T-Rex stomped past him, oblivious to his presence.

When he was sure it was safe, Darius doubled back toward the metro station. His legs ached from running, his heart heavy with everything he was feeling, but he couldn't stop now. He had to get back to the group.

By the time he reached the station, the others were already on the train, waiting anxiously for him. Darius climbed aboard, keeping his distance from Kenji and Brooklyn. He gave them a brief nod, saying nothing more.

As the train rumbled to life, Darius stared out the window, the landscape rushing by, but his mind was far away. He'd done what he had to do, saved the group again. But as he sat there, avoiding their gaze, he couldn't help but wonder if things would ever be the same.