I placed the notebook inside the folder and zipped my bag.

The flash drive beeped, indicating the digital download was complete.

I pulled it out and slipped it into the front pocket of my jeans.

Just then, my phone buzzed again, the screen displaying Koko’s name.

I answered it immediately.

“Elila, you need to get out of there right now,” Koko said, her voice frantic.

“I have the files,” I said. “I’m heading to Andrew’s office.”

“No, don’t go to his office,” Koko said. “I just saw Julian’s assistant heading up there with two security guards.”

“What about Andrew?” I asked, my chest tightening.

“His assistant said he’s at an off-site meeting with the regulatory board,” Koko said. “He won’t be back tonight.”

“I have to go to his house then,” I said. “He has to see this before they start the manufacturing run tomorrow.”

“Go through the basement,” Koko whispered. “The main lobby is too open.”

“Okay. I’m going,” I said.

I hung up and held the manila folder tightly against my chest.

The air in the hallway felt freezing as I stepped out of the lab.