Chapter 6 - The Woods Across the Street
My heart stopped beating for a terrifying, singular second as I stared at the photograph on my phone screen.
The image was crystal clear, showing the exact window of the living room where Ian and I were currently sitting.
"What is it, Nata?" Adam asked, noticing the sudden drain of color from my face.
I handed him the phone without a word, letting him read the chilling message for himself.
Adam’s expression hardened instantly, and he immediately stood up, walking over to check the heavy front deadbolt.
"Everyone away from the windows right now," Adam ordered sharply, keeping his voice low so he wouldn't alarm the children in the next room.
Ian grabbed his coat, his eyes wide with a familiar, paralyzing fear.
"They're still out there," Ian whispered, backing away from the glass.
"The syndicate doesn't leave loose ends, and they know we have the ledger."
I pulled out my phone and dialed Agent Miller's direct federal emergency number with trembling fingers.
The line rang three times before a computerized automated voice picked up, stating that the subscriber was currently unavailable.
I cursed under my breath, trying his backup extension with the exact same frustrating result.
We were entirely cut off from federal protection, stranded in a safe house that was no longer safe.
"We have to move," I stated firmly, grabbing my car keys from the kitchen counter.
"Pack the kids' bags right now; we are going to a hotel downtown."
Before Adam could reach the back hallway, a loud, heavy knock echoed against the front door.
We all froze in absolute terror, our eyes locked on the wooden entryway.
The knock came a second time, heavier and more aggressive than the first.
"Open the door, Natalie," a familiar voice called out from the porch.
It was Agent Miller.
I let out a massive sigh of relief, walking quickly toward the door and turning the deadbolt.
I pulled the heavy wood open, expecting to see the silver-haired federal investigator standing on the mat.
Instead, a tall, unfamiliar man in a black tactical vest was holding a silenced firearm directly at my chest.
He smiled an ugly, mocking smile and pushed his way forcefully into the hallway.
Behind him, three other armed operatives poured into the living room, their weapons raised and ready.
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"Agent Miller sends his regards," the lead operative sneered, cocking his gun.
"Now, hand over the flash drives, or we turn this entire house into a graveyard."
