63. Kristina

63

KRISTINA

Caroline and I hurried through the hallways. I’d found a toolbox in the back of the van and brought it along in the hope it would make me look more convincing. It seemed to work because the soldiers we passed didn’t give me a second look. It was Caroline, with her long blonde hair and maid’s uniform, who drew their eyes. My hopes started to rise as we neared the elevators. If we could just reach them and get down to the medical facility—

And then Aleksander came out of a doorway ahead of us.

I quickly stared at the floor. When I dared to look again, he was walking down the hallway, his back to us. Two of General Novak’s soldiers were accompanying him.

We followed a few steps behind. Caroline looked as shaken as I was. If they looked round….

But Aleksander was busy talking on his phone. After a few moments, I realized it was General Novak he was talking to. They were planning a TV address to the nation. They’re going to tell everyone we’re going to war!

Aleksander and the soldiers reached the elevators... and instead of passing by as I’d hoped, they stopped and pressed the button. Dammit! Caroline and I came to an awkward halt and tried to look inconspicuous.

The elevator arrived and they got in. I froze when I saw Aleksander hit the button for the medical facility. At the same time, I saw one of the soldiers check his rifle. Making sure it was ready to fire.

My stomach twisted. They were on their way to kill my parents.