Sanctuary In Shadows

The tension in the air was palpable as Ethan guided the group down a secluded path. For the first time in what felt like an eternity, there were no gunshots, no explosions, and no shadows chasing their every step. Instead, a quiet unease settled over them, punctuated only by the sound of their uneven breaths and Caleb’s occasional groans of pain.

The trail led to an inconspicuous black SUV parked under a canopy of trees. Andrew had clearly prepared for this moment—just as he claimed to have orchestrated their escape. His calm demeanor did little to soothe the storm of questions swirling in Luna’s mind.

“Get him inside,” Ethan barked, his focus laser-sharp on Caleb’s worsening condition.

Andrew opened the back door, motioning for Lena to help. “We need to move fast. It’s at least an hour to the safe house.”

“Safe house?” Lena asked, helping Caleb into the car. Her voice betrayed her exhaustion and suspicion.

Andrew shot her a look. “You’ll thank me later.”