537: A Narrow Escape

As the last rays of the sun disappeared, Emma felt her heart pounding with a mix of hope and dread. The sound of the approaching car was a welcome relief, but also a moment of uncertainty. Had Alex’s people found them, or had Clarke Zodiac’s men caught up? When the car stopped, Emma braced herself for the worst. To her relief, a familiar face greeted them. It was one of Alex's trusted men. "We've been looking everywhere for you two. Get in quickly; we can't stay here long." Alex apologized again as they climbed into the vehicle, his face reflecting the gravity of his mistake. "I’m sorry. I should have been more careful. It won’t happen again." Emma, although frustrated, knew this wasn't the time for blame. "Just drive. We need to get as far away as possible from this place!" As they sped away, Alex's phone buzzed with updates. He relayed the news to Emma. "Clarke Zodiac’s men are setting up roadblocks around this perimeter, but we have multiple routes planned. We’ll avoid them."