They didn’t speak on the way back.
The tunnel behind the compound had nearly caved in after the blast. Smoke still curled behind them like regret, but Selene didn’t look back. She walked with her daughter in her arms, one arm around Darius, the sting of fresh blood drying on her skin. Elio’s body was bound and half-dragged by Vincent, unconscious but breathing.
Not for long.
Outside, the air was still. Too still. Like even the wind knew not to speak.
Selene moved through the forest, rage sparkling low in her chest.
Each step crushed leaves like brittle bones, and she didn’t mourn a single one.
The girl clung to her without a word, small hands fisting Selene’s shirt like she was afraid she might disappear again.
When they reached the clearing, the SUV was still there.
Vincent pushe
