Chapter 23: The Rescue Plan
When shadows grow longer, courage must burn brighter.
Fear is sharp, but determination cuts sharper.
The Urgency
The six gathered in the empty parking lot, hearts pounding. Clara was safe for now, but Jayson and his accomplices were still out there.
"We don't know how many are helping him," Johnson said, voice tense. "We need a plan before they vanish into the night."
Nelson paced, thinking fast. "We split up, but cautiously. Two lead, two cover, and two watch for traps. We can't afford mistakes."
Liona clenched her fists. "Clara's counting on us. We can't fail."
Peter nodded, eyes steely. "Then it's decided. We move now."
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The Strategy
They reviewed the small details they had: Jayson's usual hideouts, Mr. Carrick's movements, and the shadows along the old school gym and nearby streets. Every clue mattered.
"We need a distraction," Nelson suggested. "Something to draw him out without putting Clara at risk."
Johnson smirked. "I've got just the idea. But it's risky."
Liona exchanged a glance with Peter. "Risky is what we do best. Let's go."
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The Tension Builds
As they moved through the shadows, every sound made them flinch. A rustle, a door creak, a distant footstep — each could signal danger.
Suddenly, a figure appeared at the far end of the alley — Jayson's silhouette, waiting.
"Split!" Johnson whispered. They scattered in practiced motion, circling him slowly.
But before anyone could reach Clara, a muffled shout came from the gym entrance.
"They're setting a trap!" Peter yelled.
Nelson cursed under his breath. "Just as I thought. Stay sharp!"
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Clara's Perspective
Tied in the chair, Clara's heart raced. Fear gnawed at her, but seeing the six outside gave her a spark of hope.
They won't leave me, she thought fiercely. They'll find me… they have to.
She tested the ropes again, praying the timing would match the rescue.
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The Cliffhanger Ending
Outside, shadows moved like predators, the night alive with danger.
Jayson's smirk was visible in the faint light. "You think you can outsmart me? You're about to find out how wrong you are."
The six froze, realization hitting them: the trap was bigger than they imagined.
And at that moment, Clara felt something shift behind her — an unexpected ally had come to her side.
> The trap is set.
The rescue is underway.
And an unexpected twist could change everything.
End Of Chapter 23