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Violent.

Too close.

The ground shook.

Heat slammed into my back.

The shockwave knocked me forward, sending me crashing onto the pavement.

Everything went white for a second.

Then—

Nothing.

No sound.

Just ringing.

High-pitched.

Endless.

I pushed myself up slowly so I could check on my uncle.

Smoke filled the air.

Fire everywhere.

My car?—

Gone.

Blown to pieces.

The whole parking lot looked like a war zone.

People screaming.

Running.

But I couldn’t hear any of it.

Not really.

Just ringing.

I touched my ear.

Nothing.

I tried to breathe.

Chest rising heavy.

Alive.

I was still alive.