Chapter 14: The calm Before the Storm

The cabin was quiet, the only sound the crackling of the fire in the hearth. Evelyn sat on the floor, her back against the couch, staring into the flames. Victor was asleep on the couch, his breathing slow and steady. Lucas was in the kitchen, brewing another pot of coffee, his movements slow and deliberate.

Evelyn's mind raced as she thought about the events of the past few days. The Kanes were still out there, and they weren't going to stop until they found her. But she couldn't back down now. Not when so much was at stake.

She stood and moved to the window, staring out at the dark woods beyond. The moon hung low in the sky, its pale light casting long shadows across the ground. Evelyn's chest tightened as she thought about Damian, about the look in his eyes as he had let them go. There was something there—something she couldn't quite place. But she didn't have time to dwell on it. Not now.

The sound of footsteps pulled her from her thoughts, and she turned to see Lucas approaching, a cup of coffee in each hand. He handed one to her, his sharp green eyes scanning her face with concern.

"You should try to get some sleep," he said, his voice low.

Evelyn shook her head, her fingers tightening around the warm mug. "I can't. Not yet."

Lucas sighed, running a hand through his hair. "You're no good to anyone if you're running on empty."

Evelyn met his gaze, her eyes filled with determination. "I know. But I can't stop thinking about what comes next."

Lucas studied her for a long moment, then nodded. "We'll figure it out. Together."