CHAPTER ONE HUNDRED AND EIGHTY TWO – LAST DITCH EFFORTS

She was nearly there when one of Sergei's men turned, his eyes widening in recognition. "There!" he shouted, reaching for his concealed weapon. Cassie broke into a run, pushing past startled travelers. Behind her, she could hear shouts and the sound of pursuit. She reached the gate just as the final boarding call was announced. Handing her ticket to the shocked attendant, she raced down the jetway. "Close the door!" she yelled to the flight crew as she burst into the plane. "Please, you have to close it now!" Whether it was the desperation in her voice or just lucky timing, the cabin door swung shut moments later. Cassie collapsed into her seat, her heart pounding as she felt the plane begin to taxi. Through the window, she could see Sergei's men arguing with airport security, gesticulating wildly towards the plane. But it was too late. The aircraft lifted off, leaving Moscow – and Sergei – behind. As the city lights faded into the distance, Cassie finally allowed herself to rela