Chapter 5: "A Bargain: Freedom"

Elony stepped forward, eyes narrowing slightly as she took in the scene – Alex's car running, Sara's clutch in hand, both poised for escape.

"Elony...what are you doing here?" Alex asked cautiously, blocking Sara slightly with his body.

"Ensuring family loyalty," Elony replied dryly. "Jackson suspected something. Asked me to discreetly monitor Sara's movements tonight."

Sara felt a chill run down her spine. "And you're telling us this why, Elony? Blackmail or stopping us outright?"

Elony leaned against a nearby pillar, voice low and even. "Neither. I'm offering a choice: leave quietly...or I'll ensure Jackson never lets Sara go without a brutal divorce battle."

Alex and Sara exchanged wary glances, weighing Elony's unexpected offer. Sara's eyes searched Alex's face, seeking his silent opinion.

Alex's expression remained neutral, but he subtly nodded almost imperceptibly – suggesting they hear Elony out further.

Sara turned back to Elony. "What exactly do you want in return for...this generosity?" Her voice laced with skepticism.

Elony pushed off the pillar, standing upright. "Jackson's been ruling our lives long enough. I want Alex to help me dismantle his business empire...from abroad, once you're both safely settled."

Alex crossed his arms, eyes narrowing slightly as he countered Elony's offer. "We'll consider helping you dismantle Jackson's empire...but only if you ensure Dad's trust fund and assets are protected from fallout."

Elony raised an eyebrow, seemingly impressed by Alex's negotiation skills. "Done. Father's finances will be quarantined from Jackson's business demise."

Sara added her condition, voice firm. "And Elony – you'll testify against Jackson in our divorce proceedings, ensuring my freedom without legal battles?"

Elony nodded curtly. "Agreed. My statement will validate Jackson's emotional abuse and manipulation – sealing your divorce and his reputation destruction."

Alex extended his hand, and Elony grasped it firmly – sealing their unlikely alliance with a handshake.

"It's done," Alex said, his eyes locking onto Elony's. "We have a bargain. Sara's freedom, Dad's protection, and Jackson's downfall."

Elony nodded once, twice, then released Alex's hand. "I'll ensure the divorce papers are filed immediately. You both leave tonight – Jackson will suspect nothing until morning."

Sara exhaled slowly, feeling weight lift off her shoulders. "We should go. Flight awaits..."

Alex offered his hand to Sara this time. She took it, and together they walked towards the car, Elony watching them depart into the night.

The nighttime drive to the airport was silent, yet palpable with emotion. Sara gazed out the window, watching mansion lights fade into darkness.

Alex's hand still enveloped hers, a gentle reminder of their escape – and future. His eyes flicked towards her occasionally, filled with a mix of excitement and reassurance.

As airport signs appeared, Sara felt tears prick at her eyelids. Freedom's thrill wrestled with grief for the life she left behind – Jackson's manipulation, her lost identity.

Alex parked near departures. He turned to Sara, voice low and soothing. "We're really doing this. Leaving the past behind."

They cleared security swiftly, Alex's premium airline status easing their passage. Gate C27 beckoned – their flight to Paris, freedom's doorstep.

As they reached the gate, boarding announcements began. Sara felt butterflies dance in her stomach – excitement mixed with lingering apprehension.

Alex noticed her hand trembling slightly in his. He gave it a gentle squeeze. "Almost there. New life awaits, Sara."

Boarding Group 1 was called – their group. They stood, gathered belongings, and joined the queue. Sara took a deep breath...

As they walked down the jetway, Sara turned back – glimpsing US soil, old life fading from view.

The plane lifted off into the night sky, wheels leaving US soil behind. Sara felt an inexplicable sense of liberation – chains broken, freedom claimed.

As Atlanta's twinkling lights faded into darkness, Alex took her hand again. Sara turned to him, eyes locking in a silent understanding.

The seatbelt sign dimmed, and they both stood – Alex drawing Sara close. Together, they gazed out the window at the endless expanse of night sky...

"We did it," Alex whispered, his breath dancing across her ear. "We're finally free."

Sara smiled softly, heart soaring. "Together, forever."

***Download NovelToon to enjoy a better reading experience!***