Casey, still reeling from the shock, seemed dazed and only partially aware, the weight of the long confinement heavy on her.
However, Raeganâs presence slightly improved her condition.
Despite her confusion, Raeganâs words resonated deeply.
Escaping had become her driving force.
A smile crept onto Caseyâs face as she tapped the window.
Raegan caught on and cracked it open just enough for safety.
It wasnât wide enough for Casey to stick her head out, but she joyfully stretched her fingers through, catching the breeze and taking in the scent.
Her expression was one of pure relief.
This was the smell of freedom.
Seeing her mother like this, Raegan knew all their risks had been worthwhile.
Her hands were cold with perspiration.
She had been counting on Davey having a sliver of conscience.
Davey was sharp enough to have anticipated Raeganâs moves from the beginning.
She was challenging him.
After all, who else would think to secure their mother in the safest seat during such a frantic escape where one would be safest if there was an accident.
Davey recognized Raeganâs resolve when he saw the car speeding off and knew if he hadnât opened the gate, she would have definitely crashed the car! It was clear Raegan had considered Caseyâs safety, showing her determination.
After driving for a while, Raegan turned on the navigation to figure out her location.
Not knowing her way around Aurora, she wasnât even sure they were still in it since there were no signs on the roads.
It seemed like they were just going around in circles.
When Raegan finally located herself, the carâs system announced they were in Houghton.
Raegan was shocked.
They had made it to Houghton!
It was far from Aurora, across a vast sea.
Though remote and concealed, it was beautiful.
Apparently, Davey had managed to get them off Aurora by water.
They couldnât have left by land or air.
Water routes, being less predictable with more possible escape points, made it easier to slip away.
It looked like Davey was planning to move them from Houghton to another place, probably not staying put for long.
That was why tracking his movements was so difficult.
Realizing this, Raegan finally understood.
No wonder her signal hadnât swiftly brought Erick and the others over.
With the distance of an entire country between them, even the fastest response couldnât be instant.
âPlease help me call the police, Raegan requested the carâs smart system in a foreign language.
â
The system replied, âConnecting you to the Houghton Coast Guard Station now.
â
Raeganâs heart soared.
She had speculated that many car systems could connect to emergency services, even if they couldnât make regular phone calls.
If she could reach the local police, they could hold out safely until Erick arrived.
Davey was influential, but his reach wouldnât extend into every country.
Raegan parked and waited nervously for the connection.
After two beeps, the call went through.
A voice, overlaid with the clacking of keyboard keys, inquired, âHello, how can I assist you?â