Chapter 17: In Desperate Straits

Irene was well aware that her situation was becoming increasingly dangerous. She decided to first find a safe place to organize her thoughts and re - plan the direction of the investigation. However, before she could act, the police had already surrounded her.

A group of heavily - armed police officers surrounded the room where she was. Their guns were pointed at Irene, and their eyes were filled with vigilance and hostility. Irene tried to explain her investigation results to them, but the police didn't listen to her. They firmly believed that Irene was making up lies to cover up her crimes.

"Listen to me, there's a conspiracy behind all this! Carl colluded with some powerful people. They covered up the truth of the steel factory pollution and committed a series of crimes!" Irene shouted loudly. Her voice echoed in the empty room, but the only response she got was the cold eyes and harsh scolding of the police.

"Put down your weapon, Irene! You have nowhere to run!" the leading police officer shouted. Irene's heart was filled with despair. She never expected that she would be in such a desperate situation. She looked at the police around her, trying to find a glimmer of trust and understanding on their faces, but all she saw was suspicion and doubt.

Just when Irene was feeling desperate, suddenly, the roar of a car engine broke the deadlock. A black modified pickup truck, like an angry beast, crashed through the police cordon. It was Samuel Hawk who got out of the car. His eyes showed an unwavering determination and courage.

"Come with me!" Hawk shouted briefly and forcefully, his voice carrying an irresistible power. Without hesitation, Irene quickly jumped into the pickup truck. The pickup truck sped away, with the police's curses and the chasing police cars behind. The tires screeched as they rubbed against the ground, making a thrilling sound in the quiet night.