Xavier stood frozen, his body shielding Elizabeth from the masked intruders. The fluorescent lights of the parking garage cast sharp shadows, making the scene feel more surreal and threatening.
"Last warning," the man with the gun said, stepping closer. "Hand over the drive, or this ends badly for both of you."
Xavier's mind raced. He couldn't afford to lose the flash drive—it was their only solid evidence against Thomas. But one wrong move could cost him and Elizabeth their lives.
Elizabeth's hand gripped Xavier's arm tightly, her breath coming in shallow gasps. "Xavier," she whispered, her voice trembling, "we can't take this risk. Give them what they want."
Xavier glanced over his shoulder at her, his expression a mixture of determination and regret. "If we give them this, Thomas wins. He'll destroy everything."
The masked man grew impatient. "Enough talking. Hand it over, now."
