The paint was peeling, showing patches of red rust underneath.

The driver guided the vehicle through a gap in the fence and stopped near a large, corrugated metal warehouse.

The building looked abandoned.

Gulls circled overhead, their cries shrill against the dull roar of the nearby freeway.

“Get out,” Chloe said, opening her door.

I hesitated, another contraction washing over me like a wave of heat.

It lasted longer this time, a full forty seconds of gripping pain that made my vision blur.

“Now,” Chloe barked, grabbing my shoulder and pulling me toward the door.

I stumbled out onto the cracked asphalt.

The air smelled of salt water, diesel exhaust, and rotting seaweed.

A cold wind blew off the harbor, whipping my hair across my face.

The driver stayed in the car, keeping the engine running.

Chloe pushed me toward a small wooden door at the side of the warehouse.

The door was unlocked, creaking loudly as she kicked it open.

Inside, the air was cold and damp.

Dust motes danced in the pale shafts of light coming through the high, dirty windows.