How a Dying Woman Rewrote Her Epilogue

Fleming nodded his agreement with Jarrod's plan, glancing through the internal reports. “Headquarters back home is already in contact with the leadership here. They're moving fast to keep everyone informed, so I'd expect an update soon."

With both domestic and international authorities stepping in, local officials would do everything possible to cooperate.

Jarrod gave a curt nod. This was exactly the result he was after.

Getting in touch with command back home right away had been about buying time. His backup plan might just come into play now. Glancing at his phone, he continued, "Since we've got colleagues on the ground, I want to deploy the satellites for a search, paired with a wide-area sweep using drones. Luckily, there's no shortage of drone operators here."

The team here was ready to follow his every directive.

Elodie's safety came first-and given her unique background, the higher-ups were paying close attention.

Virtually overnight, everyone was mobilized. Calls were made, red tape was cut, and all necessary clearances were secured.

Three hours later.

Jarrod was glued to the monitors when finally, there was a breakthrough Elodie's convoy was spotted leaving the safe zone.

His brows drew together.

A moment later, another convoy appeared on the feed-Quinn's.

Seeing that blacked-out line of vehicles, Jarrod's stomach clenched. If Quinn could track him down, he'd certainly recognize Elodie. If she fell into Quinn's hands-

"Wait! Elodie's group was taken by someone else!" Esmeralda's voice rose as she pointed out a corner of the screen.

Another

group had arrived.

most-but they

tried to follow

The feed cut out.

end of

they could confirm was that

she hadn't reached out to them

Jarrod's gaze turned pensive.

was certain:

people who'd taken her hadn't revealed themselves.

a bargaining

his

split second, he hoped it was news about

showed a different,

An old contact.

it, his eyes turned

outside to

Aldridge, did

right to the chase, not wasting a single

wasn't surprised by Jarrod's sharpness.

difficult to

wouldn't be

bother dancing

right here with me, safe and

Silverstein, you can rest

care of her."

was a clear note of provocation in

react, staring into the thick darkness outside, his tone cold as