Chapter 18: A Risky Rescue
Elara paced the cramped safehouse, Leo sleeping in the next room. Aaron was at the comms, trying to track Dominic's location through the senator's contacts.
"We've got a lead," Aaron said, eyes fixed on the screen. "A warehouse on the outskirts of the city."
Elara clenched her fists. "We don't have time to wait."
Under the cover of darkness, Elara and Aaron prepared for the rescue mission. She double-checked her gear, her mind racing with every possible outcome.
"Are you sure about this?" Aaron asked, voice low.
Elara nodded, determination blazing in her eyes. "He risked everything for us. We owe him."
They moved swiftly through the shadowed streets, hearts pounding with every step. The warehouse loomed ahead, silent except for the faint sound of muffled voices inside.
Elara pressed her hand against the cold metal door. "On my signal," she whispered.
Inside, Dominic sat bound to a chair, bruised but defiant. His eyes flicked toward the door as they burst in.
"Get him out!" Elara commanded.
Gunfire erupted.
Aaron covered their escape, taking down attackers with precise shots. Elara grabbed Dominic's arm, pulling him to his feet.
Once safe, Dominic gasped, "I thought I was done for."
Elara looked at him, fierce and grateful. "You're not alone."
Back at the safehouse, as they nursed wounds and caught their breath, Dominic revealed a devastating truth.
"The Roths… they have someone on the inside. Someone we never suspected."
Elara's heart sank. "Who?"
Dominic hesitated, voice heavy. "It's someone very close to you."
The room fell silent.
Elara's mind raced — trust shattered, the war more dangerous than ever.