Chapter 34:A Plan Takes Shape

As they sat around the small table, Sophie began to explain her plan. "We need to get out of Paris," she said. "At least, for a while. The syndicate has too many eyes and ears here. We need to go somewhere they won't think to look for us."

Léon nodded, his eyes thoughtful. "I have a place in mind," he said. "A small village in the countryside. It's remote, and it's safe. We can go there and lay low for a while."

Aurélie's eyes widened in surprise. "You have a place in the countryside?" she asked.

Léon smiled. "I have a lot of secrets, Aurélie," he said. "But this one might just save our lives."

Sophie nodded, her eyes locked on Léon's. "I like it," she said. "Let's do it."

As they began to make plans, Aurélie felt a sense of hope rising up inside her. Maybe, just maybe, they could escape the syndicate and start new lives.

But as they worked out the details, Aurélie couldn't shake the feeling that they were being watched. She kept looking over her shoulder, expecting to see someone lurking in the shadows.

And then, just as they were finishing up their plans, Aurélie heard a faint noise coming from outside the room. It sounded like footsteps, light and cautious.

Aurélie's heart skipped a beat as she met Léon's eyes. "Do you hear that?" she whispered.

Léon's face was grim, his eyes locked on the door. "Yes," he said. "I hear it."

Sophie's eyes went wide, her face pale. "It's them," she whispered. "They've found us."