Chapter 10: No Way Back
The roar of engines shattered the silence outside the warehouse.
Three black SUVs formed a tight circle around the building. Their headlights pierced the darkness, illuminating the rain that poured relentlessly from the night sky.
Damien instinctively stepped in front of Ariana.
"Stay behind me."
Ariana shook her head.
"I've hidden long enough."
Lucas crouched beside the doorway and counted the approaching footsteps.
"At least ten men," he whispered. "They're closing in from every side."
A metallic voice echoed through a loudspeaker.
"Mr. Blackwood."
"This is your final chance."
"Hand over the diary, and the nurse walks free."
Damien's eyes narrowed.
"You've already taken enough from us."
The loudspeaker fell silent.
Then came the reply.
"So be it."
