**Chapter 4: On the Run**

Nicole's fingers trembled as she waited for someone to pick up the phone. She had memorized the number of her best friend, Rachel, during their college days, and she hoped that Rachel would still have the same number after all these years. As she walked down the street, she tried to focus on her surroundings, but her senses were on high alert, expecting Coop to appear around every corner. Finally, a warm and familiar voice answered on the fifth ring. "Hello?" Rachel said, her tone cheerful. "Rachel, it's me," Nicole whispered urgently, trying not to draw attention to herself. There was a pause on the other end of the line. "Nicole? What's wrong? You sound scared." Nicole took a deep breath and tried to compose herself. "I need your help," she said, her voice still shaking. "Coop knows about the baby." Rachel's tone changed instantly. "What do you mean? What's going on?" Nicole quickened her pace, glancing over her shoulder as she walked. "He's been controlling me, manipulating me. He wants to dictate my life and the life of our child. I need to get away from him, Rachel. I need a place to stay, and I need your help to figure out what to do next." Rachel's voice was firm and decisive. "I'm on my way. Meet me at the coffee shop on 5th and Main. We'll figure something out. And Nicole, be careful. If Coop is as bad as you say he is, he won't give up easily." Nicole nodded, even though Rachel couldn't see her. "I'll be there. Thanks, Rach. I owe you one." As she ended the call, Nicole felt a surge of relief wash over her. She had someone on her side, someone who could help her navigate this nightmare. She picked up her pace, her heart pounding in her chest, as she made her way to the coffee shop. The streets seemed to blur together as she walked, her mind racing with thoughts of Coop and his sinister plans. She knew that she had to be careful, that she couldn't trust anyone, not even Rachel. But for now, Rachel was her only hope. As she turned the corner onto 5th and Main, Nicole spotted Rachel sitting at a small table outside the coffee shop. Rachel waved her over, a look of concern etched on her face. Nicole quickened her pace, her eyes scanning the surrounding area for any sign of Coop. She didn't see him, but she couldn't shake the feeling that he was watching her, waiting for her to make a mistake. As she approached the table, Rachel stood up and opened her arms, enveloping Nicole in a warm hug. "I'm here for you, Nic," she said, her voice soft and reassuring. "We'll get through this together." But as Nicole hugged her back, she couldn't help but feel a sense of unease. Was she really safe, or was she just trading one danger for another? And what would Coop do when he found out that she was hiding with Rachel?