Chapter 89: Departure and an Ambush

We arrive at the cove under a sliver of moonlight. Ramirez waits on deck, a grim expression. As we board, we spot three additional men, heavily armed, presumably Ramirez's backup. Our hearts lurch with renewed fear.Halfway out to sea, engines rumbling softly, a shout pierces the night. Gunshots ring out from the shoreline—the men from before or new enemies. Elena crouches, pressing against me for cover. Bullets skip off the waves.Ramirez barks orders, guns flashing from the boat's stern. Zach curses, returning fire. It's a tight channel, and one lucky shot could sink us. My pulse roars as more bullets zips by. Are we about to die again, at the cusp of escape?