*Ryder* I sit at the café table, my heart racing more than I like to admit as I keep my eyes glued to the entrance of the apartment building across the street. The minutes tick by, stretching my nerves taut. I keep glancing at Theo, who’s lost in thought, his brow furrowed I take another sip of my coffee, the bitter taste doing little to calm my racing heart. The café is a sanctuary of warmth and aroma that I would normally enjoy, but outside lies a storm of danger that could erupt at any moment. I steal another glance at the apartment building, my instincts screaming at me to be vigilant. Then, just as I’m about to voice another concern, I spot him. Elliot emerges, casually walking down the street, his sandy hair tousled by the breeze, a stark contrast to the grim look on his face. He

