The storm was merciless. Sheets of rain hammered against the windshield of Alaric's car as he gripped the steering wheel tightly and his knuckles began turning white. The wipers fought a losing battle, barely clearing the water before another wave drowned the glass. The road ahead was a blur, swallowed by the tempest, but Alaric pressed on with his jaw clenched in determination. Selene was out there. He didn't know exactly where, but every instinct screamed that he had to reach her before everything is too late. Suddenly, a deafening c***k split the air, and Alaric flinched as lightning illuminated the road for a brief second which revealed a fallen tree blocking his path. His heart dropped as he slammed on the brakes and the tires immediately skidded against the slick asphalt. The car s

