The backyard lay drowned in shadow, not a soul in sight. Two figures slipped soundlessly through the gloom, hearts pounding so loudly they feared it would give them away. The air was thick, cold, carrying the heavy scent of damp earth as they reached the abandoned gate.
From her bag, Gabrielle pulled out a small, rusted key, her fingers trembling as she fit it into the lock. A sharp click echoed in the stillness, and both girls froze, eyes darting toward the mansion.
Quickly, they began unwinding the heavy chains snaked across the gate. The iron links scraped together, spilling an awful, metallic rattle into the night.
“L… let’s not rush. We have to be careful,” Gabrielle whispered, her voice tight.
Kiara nodded, clutching her own hands to still their shaking. The fear inside her chest
