Caleb glanced at Evelyn, his grip tightening on his gun. “You know this guy?”


    “We’ve crossed paths,” Evelyn said without taking her eyes off Carter.


    Carter chuckled, the sound low and humorless. “That’s one way to put it. Though I have to say, Evelyn, I’m disappointed. I expected more from you.”


    Evelyn didn’t respond. She shifted her weight slightly, her gaze darting to the tree line behind Carter.


    “Looking for an exit?” Carter asked, catching the movement. “Don’t bother. You’re surrounded.”


    Caleb’s stomach dropped. “Surrounded by who?”


    Carter’s smirk widened. “Let’s just say I’ve got friends in high places.”


    Evelyn’s hand moved to her belt, her fingers brushing against a small pouch. Caleb noticed the motion and frowned.Stolen content warning: this tale belongs on Royal Road. Report any occurrences elsewhere.


    “What are you doing?” he whispered.


    “Buying us time,” Evelyn muttered.


    Carter’s gaze narrowed slightly, his relaxed demeanor shifting. “You’re stalling,” he said, his voice sharp.


    Evelyn didn’t answer. Her hand darted into the pouch, pulling out a small, cylindrical object. She tossed it toward Carter without warning, the device bouncing once before exploding in a burst of light and sound.


    Caleb staggered back, his ears ringing as the flashbang detonated. He blinked rapidly, his vision swimming as he tried to regain his bearings.


    “Run!” Evelyn shouted, grabbing his arm and pulling him toward the tree line.


    Caleb didn’t argue. He stumbled after her, his heart pounding as they disappeared into the forest. Behind them, he could hear Carter’s voice, sharp and furious.


    “Find them!” Carter shouted. “Now!”


    They ran for what felt like an eternity, the sound of pursuit growing louder behind them. Caleb’s legs burned, his breath coming in ragged gasps, but he didn’t stop. Evelyn was a few steps ahead, her movements quick and purposeful despite the chaos.


    “What the hell was that?” Caleb shouted, his voice hoarse.


    “Carter,” Evelyn said, glancing back at him. “He’s a problem.”


    “Yeah, no kidding!” Caleb snapped.


    Evelyn ignored him, her focus locked on the trail ahead. “We need to keep moving.”


    Caleb didn’t argue. He tightened his grip on his gun, his flashlight bouncing wildly as they pushed deeper into the forest.