Aurora arranged to meet Claire in a quiet park on the outskirts of the city. She chose a bench near a cluster of trees, the thick foliage providing cover in case things went south.
Logan stayed nearby, hidden in the shadows. Aurora could feel his presence, a comforting reminder that she wasn't alone.
Claire arrived a few minutes later, her blonde hair pulled into a tight ponytail. She looked nervous, her eyes darting around the park as she approached.
"Aura," she said softly, her voice trembling. "What's going on? Your handler is freaking out. They said you went rogue."
Aurora crossed her arms, keeping her tone calm but firm. "I didn't go rogue, Claire. I made a choice. There's a difference."
Claire's eyes widened. "Do you have any idea what they'll do to you? To us if they think we helped you?"
"I know," Aurora said. "That's why I need your help. Just this once. After that, you'll never see me again."
