CHAPTER 147

As they plunged deeper into the cover of the trees, the weight of the documents and evidence felt lighter in Jessica’s hands, overshadowed by the urgency of their escape. The distant wail of sirens filled the air, mixing with the sounds of rustling leaves and snapping twigs beneath their hurried steps. The moon peeked through the clouds, casting a silvery glow that guided them through the dark underbrush.

“Where to now?” Ethan panted, glancing back as if expecting to see the guards hot on their heels. Jessica could feel the tension in his voice, the adrenaline still coursing through him as they sprinted toward safety.

“Over the ridge!” Phillip shouted, pointing to a low rise just ahead. “We’ll have better cover there!” Clara, her face set with determination, nodded in agreement, and the four of them veered toward the incline, hearts pounding and breaths coming in sharp gasps.

As they reached the top of the ridge, they paused for a moment, their bodies pressed against the cool earth, p