The SUV wove through the industrial backstreets until rain blurred into darkness beyond the tinted windows. Elena sat pressed against the cold leather seat, still shivering in Adrian’s jacket. No sirens behind them. No gunfire. Just the steady hum of the engine and the slick whisper of tires on wet asphalt.
For the first time in what felt like days, she could breathe.
The agent in the passenger seat turned. “We’re taking you to a secure location until the situation stabilizes. No phones, no contact with the outside world until clearance is given.”
Elena swallowed. “How long is that?”
“As long as necessary.”
The words landed with a quiet finality. She wasn’t free yet. Just… hidden.
Across from her, Adrian sat tense and silent, water still dripping from his hair, sleeves rolled up to h
