CHAPTER TWO HUNDRED AND THIRTY EIGHT - The Fugitive's Path

As Sato took back the document, he fixed Claire with a stern look. "Remember, Ms. Thompson, we have eyes and ears everywhere. If you break this agreement, we will know, and the consequences will be... severe." Claire swallowed hard and nodded. "I understand. You have my word." With that, the meeting was over. As they left the tea house, Claire felt a wave of relief wash over her. But Hiroshi's expression remained tense. "We're not out of the woods yet," he said quietly as they walked. "They've agreed to let you go, but we need to get you out of town quickly. I don't trust them not to change their minds." They made their way back to the hotel, where Hiroshi helped Claire gather her belongings. As they were about to leave, he handed her a small package. "Here," he said. "It's a change of clothes and some food for the journey. I've also included some cash and a prepaid phone. Use it if you need help, but then destroy it. We can't be too careful." Claire felt tears welling up in her