The Exception

Chapter 36

*Jake's POV*

Slowly, Nicole and I made our way through the forest. As I made sure to stay right behind her, an understood quietness filled the air as we focused on the task at hand. I couldn't help but feel overwhelmed by my sense of urgency, but I knew it would do no good to run in "guns blazing".

"Jake... we'll find her," Nicole whispered.

"Yeah, I know." I muttered back.

We made our way towards what looked like a back entrance to the building. Nodding lightly, she motioned for me to stand on the other side of the door.

"Ready?"

"Ready," I confirmed.

At that moment, I opened the door to a dark and seemingly empty hallway.

"Stay alert, Nicole. It seems empty, but it could be a trap," I said.

She nodded, "I know. Lead the way. I've got your back."

We smoothly switched places as I moved to lead the way. This building seemed to have several rooms that Selena could potentially be held in. And because I couldn't sense her, there's no way we could find her easily.

"Guess we have to search every room, huh?" Colt said.

Sighing, Nicole said, "Yep."

Making my way to the first door, I placed my ear near the crack, hoping I'd hear any kind of movement.

"Hear anything?"

Shaking my head, I looked back towards Nicole.

"Nicole, you don't happen to know how to pick locks do you?"

She thought for a minute before responding.

"Not really."

"Colt, I might if it's just a normal door. Does anyone have a card with you?"

"A card?" I questioned.

Playfully rolling his eyes, he smiled, "Trust me."

"Okay then..." I uttered as I reached into my back pocket.

I had a credit card and a few gift cards so I pulled out one of the gift cards I didn't care about. With his hand extended, I hesitantly handed him the card and stepped away from the door.

"Watch my back for me. And keep an eye on the hallways to make sure no one sneaks up behind us or anything."

"Got it!" Keeping my eyes set, I looked around the corner just to be safe. Nicole took the other side watching for any movement.

This is going to take a long time.

*Selena's POV*

It's been a long time since Aaron visited me in the room the last time. Even though I still felt out of it, I feel like a pressure has been lifted in the last few minutes. Slowly, I felt like I was starting to realize where I was and what was going on.

I've been kidnapped... I have to get out of here.

It wasn't until now that I was even able to comprehend that I wasn't restrained at all. I was free to walk around this small, white walled room. Standing up still seemed like a struggle considering how dizzy I was, but I was finally able to regain my balance. Weirdly enough, it kind of looked like being in an examination room within a hospital of some kind. However, the surroundings suggested otherwise.