The loud crash of metal echoed through the night, followed by the sharp shatter of headlights, but Sparrow didn't flinch.
He kept his foot on the gas, maneuvering the battered bus until he reached the gas station. Without wasting a second, he pulled up right in front and jumped out, heading straight for the fuel pump.
He grabbed the nozzle, ready to refuel—but the pump refused to dispense. His eyes flicked to the digital screen.
Payment required.
Cursing under his breath, Sparrow patted his pockets, only to remember that cash and credit cards had long lost their value in this broken world, so he didn't bring them with him anymore. Yet, despite that, the gas dispenser remained locked, demanding payment before it released a single drop.
With no other choice, he turned toward the gas station's convenience store. The soft chime of the doorbell rang as he stepped inside.
