Chapter 40: A New Dawn

The SUV sped through the quiet streets, the city lights blurring past them. Inside, the air was thick with a mix of adrenaline and relief. Ava glanced over her shoulder at Collins, handcuffed in the back seat, his face pale and sullen. It was the first time she had seen him look truly defeated. Lucas kept his eyes on the road, his jaw tight. “We’ve got him,” he said, his voice steady but tinged with exhaustion. “Now we just have to get him to the FBI safe house and ensure he doesn’t slip away.” Collins shifted in his seat, a sneer crossing his lips. “You think you’ve won?” he muttered. “This isn’t over. I still have people—” Ava cut him off, turning in her seat to face him. “You’re done, Collins. The evidence is out. Your allies are abandoning you. You’ve lost.” Collins’s eyes flashed with anger. “You’re naive if you think a few files will bring me down. I’ve survived worse.” Ava leaned closer, her voice cold. “Not this time. The world knows who you are now. You’re not getting out