Chapter 15. Crossfire

“This isn’t about rumors. It’s about the fact that they’re circling closer. That text you showed me? They meant it.”

Axel dragged her out of class with nothing more than a glance, his urgency coiling tight in every step. But as she trailed after him, Riven’s chest burned with frustration.

“So what?” she snapped. “I hide in the bathroom until graduation?”

He stepped closer, voice low and sharp. “So you stop pretending you’re untouchable.”

Her throat tightened. She wanted to argue, to shove him back—but before she could, the roar of engines split the morning.

Her blood froze.

Three bikes tore into the school lot, engines snarling, exhaust choking the air. Rival colors flashed bold across their vests. Students screamed, scattering across the pavement.

Riven’s stomach dropped. The rivals didn’t care about being seen anymore.

One rider cut the throttle, grinning under his lifted visor. “Morning, Hale! Thought we’d bring class to you!”