Nathan read the note Scarlett had pressed into his hand, his face a mask of calm, but tension coiled tightly beneath the surface. We're not safe. The words echoed in his mind as he folded the slip of paper and tucked it into his pocket. His eyes flicked toward Scarlett, who met his gaze briefly before glancing away, careful not to draw attention.
Miriam returned moments later, her face calm as she balanced a tray with steaming mugs of coffee.
"Here," she said, setting the tray down gently on the worn coffee table. "I thought you could use something warm."
Scarlett forced a tight smile, her pulse drumming in her ears. Miriam's movements were precise, controlled. Too controlled.
"Thank you," Ellen murmured, reaching out for a mug with trembling fingers.
Nathan didn't touch his. His gaze was fixed on Miriam as she lowered herself into a chair across from them. Silence stretched, only broken by the rain tapping gently against the windowpanes.