The convoy moved through the night, but nobody inside the presidential SUV felt safe.
Sophia sat between Sebastian and Vivian, holding the small metal box recovered from the underground facility. Across from them, Helena looked exhausted, her face pale beneath the dim interior lights.
Sophia finally broke the silence.
"Tell me more about Richard."
Helena glanced at her. "Your father met him at the research facility before you were born. Richard worked inside the government and had access to intelligence files, financial records, and national security information."
"Then why would my father trust him?" Sophia asked.
"Because Richard once saved his life."
Sophia stared at her.
"During an investigation, your father discovered several government officials were receiving money through private companies. The people behind those companies tried to silence him. Richard helped him escape."
"And later, he betrayed him?"
"Yes."
"Why?"
