Chapter 33: A Hidden Refuge

As they caught their breath in the darkness, Aurélie heard Sophie fumbling with a match. Suddenly, a small flame erupted, casting flickering shadows on the walls.

They found themselves in a small, cramped room, the walls lined with old furniture and boxes. Sophie gestured for them to follow her, leading them deeper into the room.

As they walked, Aurélie noticed that the room was surprisingly cozy, despite its cramped size. There was a small kitchenette in one corner, and a comfortable-looking bed in another.

Sophie seemed to sense her curiosity. "This is my safe house," she explained. "I've been using it for months, ever since I left the syndicate."

Aurélie's eyes widened in surprise. "You've been hiding here all this time?" she asked.

Sophie nodded. "It's not ideal, but it's safe. At least, it's been safe until now."

Léon's eyes narrowed. "What do you mean?" he asked.

Sophie hesitated, her eyes darting nervously around the room. "I think they've found me," she said. "I've been noticing strange things lately... noises in the night, footsteps outside. I think they're closing in."

Aurélie's heart skipped a beat. "We have to get out of here," she said. "Now."

But Sophie shook her head. "We can't," she said. "Not yet. We need to come up with a plan, figure out our next move."

Léon nodded, his eyes locked on Sophie's. "You're right," he said. "We need to think this through, come up with a strategy."

As they sat down to discuss their next move, Aurélie couldn't shake the feeling that they were running out of time. The syndicate was closing in, and they needed to act fast if they wanted to stay alive.