Hazel’s aunt, Sophie, had tried everything to pull her niece out of this dark hole. She brought Hazel’s favorite foods, tried to engage her in conversation, even suggested they watch movies together like they used to. But Hazel’s responses were monosyllabic, her gaze distant. Sophie was at her wit’s end, but she knew that time was the only thing that might heal Hazel’s broken heart—if it ever would.
While Hazel was drowning in her sorrow, Ace was spiraling down a different path. His anger and guilt over what had happened to Hazel consumed him. Every night, he pushed himself harder, riding in races with a reckless abandon that shocked even his closest friends. He was winning every race, but the victories brought him no joy. The thrill of the speed, the roar of the engine—none of it could f
