CHAPTER FORTY FIVE – SHE CAN’T RETURN

She leapt from the branch, hitting the ground hard on the other side of the wall. Pain shot through her ankle, but Rebecca forced herself to her feet. She could hear sirens in the distance – the police had been called. Limping slightly, Rebecca ran into the streets of Gilda's Bay. This time, the town was awake and bustling. People turned to stare as she ran past, some calling out in concern. Rebecca ducked into an alley, trying to catch her breath and get her bearings. She needed to make it to the warehouse where Luca was waiting, but she couldn't remember exactly where it was. The sound of police sirens grew closer. Rebecca peeked out of the alley, her heart sinking as she saw a police car slowly cruising down the street. She pressed herself against the wall, praying they wouldn't spot her. As soon as the car passed, Rebecca darted out, running in what she hoped was the direction of the warehouse district. She weaved through side streets and back alleys, trying to avoid the main r