Clara sat in the backseat of the car as it sped through the city streets, her heart pounding in her chest. Gregory had assured her that they were heading to a safe house, but unease gnawed at her. She couldn't shake the image of Benjamin standing in that warehouse, determined to fight Moriarti alone.
The car pulled up to a modest, secluded house on the outskirts of the city. Gregory stepped out first, scanning the surroundings before opening the door for Clara. "You'll be safe here," he said, leading her inside.
The interior was simple but comfortable, with a small living room and a kitchen stocked with supplies. Clara sat down on the couch, her mind racing with questions.
"Where's Benjamin?" she finally asked, breaking the silence.
Gregory hesitated. "He's... handling things. He'll join us as soon as he can."
Clara frowned. "Why do I feel like you're not telling me everything?"
Gregory sighed, running a hand through his hair. "Because I'm not. There's a lot going on that you don't know about, Clara. And it's better that way."
She stood up, her frustration bubbling over. "I deserve to know the truth! If I'm going to be used as leverage, I need to understand why."
Gregory studied her for a moment, then nodded. "You're right. But it's not my place to tell you. That's something Benjamin will have to explain."
Before Clara could press further, the sound of tires screeching outside drew their attention. Gregory's hand went to his holster as he moved toward the window. "Stay here," he ordered.
Clara watched as he disappeared into the hallway, her anxiety spiking. Moments later, the front door opened, and a familiar figure stepped inside.
"Benjamin!" she exclaimed, rushing toward him.
He caught her in his arms, holding her tightly. "Are you okay?" he asked, his voice laced with worry.
"I'm fine," Clara replied, pulling back to look at him. "But what about you? What happened?"
Benjamin's expression darkened. "Moriarti got away. But this isn't over."