I know we can't delay our escape much longer, but acting rashly could provoke Gerald's wrath and seal our fate.
I mull over how to proceed, wanting desperately to flee, yet cautious of making a fatal misstep.
In a private moment, I pull Yara close, my heart aching at the fear in my daughter's eyes. "No matter what happens, little one, we have each other. Don't ever forget that."
Yara nods, her lip quivering. I smooth back her hair, wishing I could shield her from all of this, but knowing escape is our only hope.
We cling to each other as the light fades, finding strength in our bond. I whisper fierce promises, vowing we will soon be freeof Gerald's twisted games. For now, we can only bide our time, trusting our love will see us through.
I notice the subtle and more obvious signs that Gerald's suspicion is growing.
The staff whisper in corners, casting furtive glances my way.
I catch fleeting glimpses of guards stationed just out of sight, confirming my instinct that both Yara and I are being watched more closely than ever.
Gerald's charming façade remains intact most of the time, especially around company, but his eyes follow my every move, calculating and cold. I tread carefully, communicating only in hushed tones when Yara and I are certain we have a moment of privacy.
Our plans for escape must be kept secret, shared through whispers. I hate that Yara must learn this wariness so young, but it's necessary for our survival.
The night we intend to flee arrives. As we sneak through the mansion, our bags packed and pulses racing, my heart sinks. In the shadows near our planned escape route lurk Gerald's men.
I realize with dread that Gerald has us under surveillance far beyond what I realized. Aborting our attempt is painful, but clearly the risks are too great now. Especially when I think back to what happened last time I tried to escape.
Defeated, we return to our opulent cage. I pull a weeping Yara close, making a silent vow. "We will find another way, my little sun. Have faith."
Though freedom slips through our grasp tonight, our determination is undimmed.
We cling to hope through the darkness, two survivors against the odds, unwilling to surrender.
We just might need a hand.
Chapter 28
Morello
My phone buzzes in my pocket. I glance at the screen, my brow furrowing. A message from Alina's daughter, Yara.
My gut twists.
This can't be good.
I read her plea for help, anger simmering in my veins.
That bastard Gerald has gone too far this time.
My jaw tightens. I'll get them out of this, no matter what it takes.
But I have to be smart. Gerald is dangerous. One wrong move could make this whole thing blow up.
I type out a reply.
Morello: Thank you for reaching out, Yara. I'm here for you both. We'll figure this out. Delete this message and your other ones as soon as you get this, and sit tight.
Alina
I hum tunelessly as I tidy Yara's room. I scoop up a pile of clothes, revealing Yara's phone underneath, only ever not attached to her when she's taking a shower or asleep. The screen lights up with a new message.
My blood runs cold as I recognize the number from the card handed to me just the other day. A text from Agent Morello? No. It couldn't be. This isn't happening.