Alex worked with frantic efficiency. She grabbed a backpack from her closet and stuffed it with essentials: clothes, toiletries, her phone charger, and a little cash she'd saved. Every item felt heavy, laden with memories. As she packed, her mind raced, calculating the risks and possibilities.
She glanced at the clock. It was late. The house was quiet, save for the ticking of the grandfather clock in the hall. Daniel was probably asleep, or at least in his study. This was her chance.
With a deep breath, she crept out of her room. The hallway was dark, and the floorboards creaked ominously under her feet. She moved slowly, carefully, her heart pounding in her ears.
The front door was the obvious choice, but it was also the most risky. If caught, she would be trapped. No, she needed a bac
