The wheels were stuck in the rock cracks. That was one pursuer down, one to go!

There was only a single car chasing them. Erica's driver headed for the city again. When they got downtown, they ran a red light. A big red truck was bearing down on them.

Fortunately, their car flew past, narrowly missing the truck. The other car was not so lucky. They heard the screech of brakes, the sound of shattering glass, and a loud bang! The truck couldn't stop in time, and tore the smaller vehicle to shreds. The two people inside were killed on the spot.

Having escaped her pursuers, Erica breathed a sigh of relief. She patted her chest to calm her hammering heart.

Just then, the phone in her pocket vibrated. It was Matthew calling.

“Where are you?" he asked as soon as the call was connected.

Erica rolled down the window and Looked out.

“Out and about. I'm on my way home now. See you soon!"

“Out and about?" he asked.

"Yeah." Erica asked, “Are you home now?"

“Hmm ."*

She smiled sweetly and said, "Wait for me at home. I'll be right there!"

“I'LL be waiting."

After hanging up the phone, Erica turned to Edward.

“Get rid of this car. Those thugs will figure out who owns this vehicle. I'll wire the money to you tomorrow and you can get another one.”

“Yes, ma'am.”

The driver found an intersection without a surveillance camera and asked Erica and Edward to get out of the car. Then he left the figures alone as he drove a short way to an empty alley.

He popped the hood, and pulled the transmission lines till they broke free of their moorings and leaked fluid all over the engine block. The he took a Lighter from his pocket, lit it and threw it into the car. In an instant, flames roared to life.

About five minutes after Erica and Edward got in the taxi they hailed, they could hear the car explode. And felt it, too. It was not quiet, nor was it subtle.

Arriving at the Pearl Villa District, Edward got out of the taxi and whispered in Erica's ear for a while, then got back in the taxi and left.

In the villa

Matthew had already taken a shower and was waiting for his wife in the bedroom. Erica went to check on her sons, who were all sound asleep.

Erica walked into the bedroom. Clad in pajamas, Matthew sat on the bed talking on the phone. He said a hasty goodbye to the person on the other end when he saw his wife.

Erica walked over and wrapped her arms around his neck, acting like a spoiled child.

"Honey."