The children left at midnight. Fifteen kids. Six adults. Diana leading them through a secret tunnel that led five miles from the Sanctuary.
Sarah held Emma one last time.
"I love you, baby. More than anything in the world."
"I love you too, Mommy." Emma clung to her. "Please do not die."
"I will not. I promise."
Francis hugged Emma next. "Be good. Listen to Diana. And remember, you are the bravest girl I know."
"I am scared, Daddy."
"I know. But being brave means doing things even when you are scared."
Emma nodded. Sophie took her hand. The two girls walked toward the tunnel together.
Sarah watched her daughter disappear into the darkness. Every instinct screamed at her to run after Emma. To stay with her.
But she could not.
She had to fight. Had to give Emma a chance to escape.
