Chapter 162 A Split-Second Choice

They found themselves in a dimly lit service elevator with a single, worn-out button. Without hesitation, John slammed his fist against it. The elevator lurched into action, ascending slowly with a groan and a wheeze. The tension remained, a gnawing feeling that their escape might still be cut short. But with each floor they passed, the hope grew stronger. They were on their way out, finally leaving the sterile nightmare of the consortium's facility behind. The elevator finally reached the top floor, its rickety doors groaning open to reveal a deserted loading dock bathed in moonlight. The cool night air washed over them, ...a welcome contrast to the oppressive atmosphere of the tunnels. They stumbled out onto the dock, collapsing onto a stack of empty crates. Exhaustion overwhelmed them, washing over their bodies like a tidal wave. "We made it," John whispered, his voice hoarse. He looked at Olivia, her face pale but a triumphant smile playing on her lips. "We did," she replied, h