“I got out through the basement,” I lied, looking out the window at the dark trees lining the road. “I have the drive. The one with the registry files.”

“Did Damon see you?” she asked quickly.

“No,” I said. “But his security team is everywhere. I can’t go back to Marlene’s house. It isn’t safe.”

“Where are you going?”

“The old water treatment facility on the north ridge,” I said. “The one near the old iron docks. It’s abandoned, but the gate is unlocked.”

Another pause. I could hear her breathing.

“Why there, Nora?” she asked, her tone shifting slightly.

“Because nobody goes there,” I said. “And I need you to help me get out of the county. You promised you would help me keep Leo safe.”

“I did,” Elaine said softly. “And I will. I’ll meet you there in twenty minutes. Do not move from that location.”

“Please hurry,” I said, and ended the call.

I let out a breath I hadn’t realized I was holding.

“She took the bait,” I said, looking at Damon.

“Marcus,” Damon said, his eyes fixed on the road ahead. “How far to the north ridge?”