An Unforgiving Love

Chapter 15- Questions and Answers

Victor's face reddened as he tried to maintain some semblance of dignity, looking up briefly before shifting his gaze back to the floor. "Can we just get back to the questions?" he muttered, clearly wishing to steer the conversation away from his earlier bravado.

Bella leaned closer, her expression serious again. "Sure, but remember, you're the one who got yourself into this mess. Now, if you want to walk out of here with any kind of hope, you need to tell us everything you know. No more games."

Victor took a deep breath, his bravado waning. "Fine," he relented. "I'll tell you about McLean and the operation. Just don't... don't do anything crazy again."

"Just stick to the facts, Victor," the CO said, maintaining a steady gaze. "We're here to get to the bottom of this, and we can help you if you cooperate."

As Victor began to recount more details about his involvement with Lcpl McLean and the shady dealings, Bella exchanged a knowing glance with Leo. Their earlier laughter faded into focus as they understood the seriousness of the situation, ready to uncover the truth behind the web of deception that had led to the major's death.

After gathering the crucial information from Victor, Bella, Leo, and the CO quickly regrouped outside the questioning room. The atmosphere was tense as they realized that Lcpl McLean was still at large, and time was of the essence to prevent her from escaping.

"We need to move now," Bella urged, urgency in her voice. "If McLean catches wind of this, she'll vanish."

Leo nodded, his expression serious. "I'll coordinate with the teams. We can set up a perimeter and head her off before she can slip away."

The CO glanced at Bella, impressed by her assertiveness. "You're coming with us. We could use your insight on the ground."

Bella felt a rush of adrenaline. "Let's go. I know her patterns from our earlier investigations. If she's planning to leave, she'll likely head to her last known address."

The team quickly moved into action, gathering their gear and relaying information over the radio. Bella led the way, recalling details about McLean's habits and potential escape routes.

As they arrived at the location, a nondescript apartment complex, Bella's heart raced. "We need to be careful," she whispered, scanning the area for any signs of movement. "She could be anywhere."

They approached the building cautiously, their senses heightened. Leo took point, signaling the team to spread out and cover all entrances. Bella remained close, ready to provide any insight she could.

"On my count," Leo whispered. "Three... two... one... go!"

They burst into the building, moving silently through the hallways, checking each apartment door. Bella led them to McLean's last known unit, her instincts on high alert.

"Here," she said, stopping in front of the door. "This is it."

The CO nodded and signaled for the team to prepare for a breach. Bella felt a mix of anticipation and fear; this was it-the moment they would either capture McLean or lose her for good.

"Let's do this," Leo said, determination in his eyes. With a swift motion, he kicked the door open, and they flooded into the room.

The apartment was empty, but Bella quickly scanned the surroundings, spotting a half-packed bag on the floor and a window ajar, fluttering slightly in the breeze. "She's been here," Bella said, urgency in her voice. "We need to check the stairwell!"

They sprinted towards the staircase, Bella leading the charge as they descended quickly. At the bottom, they caught sight of McLean just as she was about to exit the building.