CHAPTER 149

The air crackled with anticipation as Agent Matthews led the group into the safe house's main room. A sense of urgency gripped the atmosphere, thickening with every moment that passed. The dim lighting cast shadows that danced on the walls, mimicking the fear and uncertainty that churned within Jessica's chest. She could feel her heart racing, pounding in sync with the muffled sounds outside.

“Get ready,” Matthews said, his voice low but commanding. “We need to stay vigilant. If Lane is onto us, he won’t waste time sending someone to retrieve you.”

Jessica exchanged glances with Phillip and Clara, the weight of the situation settling heavily upon them. She felt an electric current of fear and resolve intertwining within her. This was the moment they had been preparing for, the culmination of all their efforts to bring Andrew Lane down.

The sound of footsteps echoed outside, a rhythmic cadence that made Jessica's pulse quicken. Matthews moved to the window, peering through the blinds.