They’re… here for us, — she heard behind her.

The man was standing, leaning against the wall. He looked pale, but his eyes were clear, focused — the eyes of someone used to danger.

— Who are you? — Natalie whispered.

He exhaled a heavy breath.

— Police. Yesterday I was on an undercover operation. The criminals found me out… planted explosives. I didn’t want to drag you into this. I’m sorry.

— Why didn’t you say so immediately?!

— Because… if they’d detected a 911 call, the ones rushing here wouldn’t have been my team — it would’ve been them. Last night, I contacted the department through a secure channel. I sent the address. They promised to be here by sunrise. If that’s them — we’re safe.

But Natalie looked out the window again — and her blood ran cold. No one got out of the van. The windows — fully tinted. The doors — closed. The vehicle was far too still, far too quiet.

 

— Are you… sure it’s your people? — she mouthed.

The officer turned even paler.

— I don’t know.

And as if hearing his words, the van trembled slightly. The driver’s side window slid down — just a few centimeters.

Inside sat special forces officers.

— Yes, we’re saved! — the policeman said with relief.