Anna’s POV
I wake up and the house is entirely empty. The silence is deafening. I know Derek didn't come home last night, but where are the men he put to monitor Tara and I? They are supposed to be here 24/7, watching our every move. Did they leave for some reason? Or did something happen to them?
I try not to panic. Maybe they are just away for a while. Maybe they went to get some food or supplies. Maybe they are checking the perimeter or the car. Maybe they will be back soon.
I get out of bed and walk around the house. Everything looks normal. Nothing is missing or broken. No signs of struggle or violence. No blood or bullets. No traces of intruders or enemies.
I check my phone. No messages or calls from Derek. No news or alerts. No clues or warnings. Nothing.
I decide to act as if
