Derek stifled the urge to lash out at Nicole as his left hand was so badly hurt that it was practically useless.

He realized Nicole was sharper than he had anticipated. She added to the severity of his injury to lessen his threat level. He cursed silently, yet he depended on Nicole to help him escape the wrecked car.

"Miss, please help me get out of here. It's too dangerous. Derek begged, looking at the smoking car."

Seeing the urgency, Nicole pushed past her own discomfort, wrenched the twisted car door open, and dragged Derek to safety.

Once outside, Derek collapsed on the ground, breathing hard. He resembled a stranded fish, mouth gaping wide, desperate for a breath of air.