Chapter 43: In the Crosshairs

The SUV sped through the city streets, headlights slicing through the darkness. Inside, the atmosphere was thick with tension, and the hum of adrenaline still coursing through their veins. Ava glanced out the window, watching the neon signs and streetlights blur past. Her mind was racing, trying to make sense of everything that had just happened. Lucas sat beside her, his gaze fixed ahead. “That was close,” he muttered, his grip on the steering wheel tight. “Too close.” Ava nodded, her voice steady but urgent. “Lydia was onto us from the start. We underestimated her—and Quantum.” From the back seat, Diaz leaned forward, her expression intense. “We need to find out who she is. She’s more than just head of security.” Jess’s voice crackled through the earpiece, still working remotely from their safe house. “I’ve been researching Lydia Hartman’s background since you mentioned her. So far, I’ve got nothing—no digital footprint, no official records. It’s like she doesn’t exist.” Ava fel