Chapter 4 - The Hunted
I slammed the truck into gear and tore across the manicured lawn, destroying Richard's expensive landscaping.
My mind raced as I processed the voice on the satellite phone.
A burn protocol meant that my true identity had already been compromised.
Richard wasn't just a rich, abusive husband.
He was connected to the shadows I had left behind.
I sped down the winding country roads, pushing the old engine to its absolute limit.
In the rearview mirror, I saw three black SUVs violently turn onto the road behind us.
They were moving in a synchronized tactical formation, not like local cops.
"Dad," Lily moaned softly, slowly opening her bruised eyes.
"Just hold on, sweetie, I am going to get you somewhere safe," I promised, gripping the steering wheel.
The lead SUV accelerated rapidly, violently ramming the back bumper of my truck.
We swerved toward a deep ditch, but I fought the wheel and regained control.
I reached into the black case again and pulled out a customized, suppressed compact pistol.
I rolled down my window, aimed behind me using the side mirror, and fired three rapid shots.
The bullets shattered the SUV's engine block, causing it to spin wildly out of control and block the road.
The other two vehicles were forced to slam on their brakes, buying me precious time.
I turned down a hidden logging road, disappearing into the dense, darkening forest.
Lily reached over with a trembling hand and turned on the audio recording from her phone.
May you like
Richard's voice played through the small speaker, completely clear and terrifying.
"Tell me where your father keeps the Beirut files, Lily, or I will break your other arm," Richard's recorded voice demanded.
