Lana’s grip tightened around the ring, her breath coming in shallow gasps. The cool metal felt like a shackle in her palm—one she thought she had broken free from.
Matteo stepped beside her, his sharp eyes scanning the surrounding darkness. “Get inside. Now.”
Lana hesitated for only a second before snapping into action. She turned on her heel and rushed back inside, locking the door behind her.
Aunt Sophia’s face creased with worry. “Lana, what’s wrong?”
Lana tossed the ring onto the wooden table like it was poisoned. “Dean knows we’re here.”
Matteo cursed under his breath. “Son of a bitch.” He grabbed his rifle, double-checking the ammunition. “We’ve got to move. Now.”
Lana nodded, but deep inside, a sinking realization took hold.
They had been careful. Too careful. There was no wa
