Chapter 26: The Alliance Gamble

As Lily, Ethan, Jack, and Monica went farther into the forest, the first rays of dawn broke through the thick tree canopy. Every muscle ached from exhaustion, but they continued to move because of the adrenaline from the night before. Hours had passed since they had heard gunfire or footsteps, but Victor Kane's men's menace lingered like a shadow. Their nerves were jangled by every twig snap and leaf rustle.

Lily turned to look at Ethan, whose keen eyes surveyed the area with hawk-like accuracy. She could feel the strain coming from him, even though his jaw was clenched and his expression was unreadable. He wasn't to blame. They had to stop running since their options were limited.

Monica's voice cracked as she tried to keep up, "We can't keep this up." She had black circles under her eyes and a pallid face. "This type of thing is not my style. Out here, we're sitting ducks.