To Rachel's

Maria raced through the streets, her heart pounding with a mix of fear and determination. As she sped towards Rachel's apartment, she dialed her friend's number, urgency lacing her voice.

"Hi, Maria," Rachel answered, a note of confusion in her voice.

"Rachel, listen up! Something's seriously wrong. You need to come outside, and I'll pick you up. I'll be there in 5 minutes, so be quick!" Maria urged, her words filled with urgency.

Rachel's voice trembled as she asked, "What's happening, Maria?"

"I promise I'll explain everything, but right now, we have to go. Head downstairs and wait for me," Maria replied, her worry palpable.

"But... Ethan called me just a minute ago. He said he wants to talk to me about you. What's going on, Maria?" Rachel's voice held a mix of confusion and concern.

Maria cursed under her breath, her mind racing. "Something's not right with Ethan. You have to hurry. Do you trust me, Rachel?"

"Yes, I trust you, but..." Rachel's voice trailed off, uncertainty lingering.

"Then come down NOW!" Maria insisted firmly, determination fueling her words.

Maria accelerated and with the help of her heightened senses she skillfully maneuvered through the traffic. Luck was on her side, as it was too late for any jams, so she arrived at Rachel's apartment without any major delays. Rachel was waiting anxiously by the street, and Maria pulled up beside her, motioning for her to get inside.

As Rachel settled into the car and fastened her seatbelt, she couldn't help but ask, "Whose car is this?"

"Technically, it's mine now... I'll explain later. Right now, we need to go," Maria replied, her eyes scanning the surroundings for any sign of Ethan as she stepped on gas.

"Where are we heading?" Rachel inquired cautiously.

"To my place," Maria answered, her eyes constantly checking rear mirrors, her voice tinged with concern. "Actually, that's something I need to explain as well. But for now, I'm just glad you came in time."

Rachel's brows furrowed, and she pressed, "Why are you constantly checking if we're being followed? Slow down a bit, Maria! You're gonna get us killed!"

"It's Ethan, Rachel. I think he's not who he claims to be. Did you notice anything strange about him?" Maria asked, her voice filled with worry.

Rachel paused for a moment, reflecting, before nodding. "Now that you mention it, he was acting odd today. After our conversation yesterday, I began to pay attention. He started asking a lot of questions about my friends, especially you. And when he called me just before you did, he said something similar about you... 'she's not who she claims to be.' I'm confused, Maria. What the hell is going on all of a sudden?"

Maria took a deep breath, her voice heavy with regret. "In that regard, he's right, Rach. There are things I haven't been honest with you about. I'm sorry. I promise I'll tell you everything, but right now, let's just get back to my... home."