Alex's POV
The moon was high, casting long shadows as I made my way through the forest. My heart was pounding, but not from the walk. Tonight could change everything.
I reached the old oak tree, our meeting spot. No one in sight. Maybe I was early?
A twig snapped behind me. I spun around, ready to fight.
"Easy there, big guy," a voice chuckled. "It's just me."
I relaxed as a figure stepped out of the shadows. Martin, my old army buddy. And now, my secret informant.
"Damn it, Martin," I grumbled. "You trying to give me a heart attack?"
He grinned, all teeth. "Aw, come on. Where's your sense of adventure?"
I rolled my eyes. "Left it in my other pants. You got what I asked for?"
Martin's face turned serious. He pulled out a thick envelope. "Yeah, I got it. But Alex... this is some he
