CHAPTER TWO HUNDRED AND THIRTY NINE - The Brink of Resolution

After hanging up, Claire checked her flight details. Her plane was scheduled to depart at 3:45 PM, giving her just enough time to get to the airport. She quickly packed her belongings, her hands shaking as she zipped up her suitcase. As she left her room, Claire's paranoia kicked in. Every person in the hallway seemed suspicious, every glance in her direction felt loaded with hidden meaning. She hurried through the lobby, keeping her head down, and hailed a taxi outside. The ride to Narita Airport was tense. Claire couldn't shake the feeling that she was being followed, constantly checking the rearview mirror for any signs of pursuit. The taxi driver, sensing her unease, tried to make small talk, but Claire could only manage brief, distracted responses. As they approached the airport, traffic began to slow. Claire's heart raced as she watched the minutes tick by. "Is there a problem?" she asked the driver anxiously. He shrugged apologetically. "Traffic jam. Maybe accident ahead."