Chapter 48: The Quiet Before the Next Step
The afternoon light softened into a warm, honey‑gold glow as the last of the neighbors’ cars disappeared down the road. The yard felt strangely empty without them — not lonely, just… still. Like the land itself was taking a breath.
Inside, the cabin was quiet. Callahan Jr. was still asleep, curled up on the couch with his stuffed fox tucked under his chin. Emery stood in the doorway, watching him for a moment, letting the innocence of the scene settle her heartbeat.
Brent stepped in behind her, his presence warm and grounding. He didn’t touch her at first — he just stood close enough that she could feel the heat of him, the steady rhythm of his breath.
“You okay?” he asked softly.
She nodded. “Are you?”
He didn’t answer right away. Instead,
