Chapter 17 - THE LONG DRIVE TO DC
The Ford Ranger rattled rhythmically as it barreled down the winding asphalt of Route 50 toward the nation's capital.
Inside the cab, tension hung thick enough to cut with a knife as they passed the welcome sign for the District of Columbia.
Marcus monitored police scanner frequencies on the radio, listening to encrypted federal dispatch chatter.
"They've locked down Capitol Hill under the guise of an unscheduled security drill," Marcus reported, adjusting the static dial.
"They know we're coming," Ethan stated calmly, keeping his eyes locked on the heavy morning traffic ahead.
Lily slept soundly in the middle seat between them, her head resting comfortably against Ethan's shoulder.
They crossed the Potomac River over the Key Bridge, watching the iconic marble monuments gleam under the gray autumn sky.
The US Capitol dome loomed majestically in the distance, hiding layers of corruption beneath its white stone facade.
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Ethan pulled the truck into an underground public parking garage beneath a federal office building three blocks from the Senate.
"This is where we leave the truck," Ethan announced, turning off the ignition.
