The night air was cold against Maya's face as Agent Chen guided her toward the waiting black SUV. Campus security had cordoned off the area, keeping curious students at a distance. Through the crowd, Maya could see faces she recognized. Tank. Marcus. Tyler. All watching, confused.
One last look. That's all I get.
Chen opened the back door. "In you go."
Maya hesitated, one foot on the running board. This was it. The moment everything became real. Once she got in that car, Pacific Elite would become another place she used to be.
"Maya." Chen's voice was gentle but firm. "We need to move."
Maya ducked her head to climb in.
"Wait!"
The shout cut through the quiet night. Maya turned.
Ethan was running across the quad, still in his practice gear. He must have seen the commotion from the dining hall, must have put the pieces together.
"Stop the car," he called out, breathless as he reached them. His eyes found Maya's. "Don't go."
