CHAPTER SIX HUNDRED AND TEN – BACK TO NEW MEXICO

Finally, after nearly a week of travel, they crested a hill and saw it - the city sprawling out before them, its lights twinkling in the gathering dusk. Jasmine felt tears spring to her eyes. They had made it. Against all odds, they had survived and reached their goal. As they drove into the outskirts of the city, Jasmine's mind was already racing with all they needed to do - find a hospital for Sergei, contact their families, reach out to their employers. But underneath it all was a profound sense of accomplishment and gratitude. Boris pulled the truck to a stop outside a large hospital. As they climbed out, stretching legs stiff from the long journey, he turned to them with a rare smile. "You are good people," he said gruffly. "Strong. Brave. I am glad to have made this journey with you." Jasmine impulsively hugged the gruff mechanic, surprising him. "Thank you, Boris. For everything." As Boris drove away, promising to return in a few days to take them to the airport, Jasmine a