The door clicked shut behind them. Aria leaned heavily against the wall, her breath uneven.
“She’s awake,” she said, voice barely above a whisper. “But this isn’t over. Not by a long shot.”
Jerry stepped closer, steady. “Whatever happens, you won’t face it alone.”
Aria’s eyes met his—dark, tired, but burning with something fierce. “I don’t know if I can do this.”
Jerry’s jaw tightened. “You’re stronger than you think.”
She swallowed hard. “I need you.”
“I’m here.”
---
Outside, Daniel’s phone buzzed. An unknown number.
We need to talk. Now!
His pulse quickened. He answered.
“Who is this?” His voice was sharp.
A cold, low voice answered: “Someone who knows what you’ve done. You can’t run.”
The call ended. Daniel’s hands trembled.
---
Back inside, Aria sat beside Isabelle, grip
