The Lure: I

The evening shadows lengthened, casting an eerie glow in Isla's apartment. Theo sat hunched over, his mind churning with the weight of his thoughts, the sense of urgency gnawing at him. He had to find a way to keep Isla safe, but the forces against them seemed too great to overcome.

A soft doorbell rang, cutting through his worry. He stood up carefully and went to open it.

Professor Trebla stepped in, his expression grave.

"Colonel," he greeted, his voice a low murmur. "How is Isla?"

"She’s resting," Theo muttered, glancing back at Isla behind the closed door of her bedroom. "The wound is healing, but I’m worried about what comes next."

Professor Trebla nodded, the lines in his face deepening. "What is the situation now?"

Theo inhaled deeply, his mind a whirlwind of thoughts.