27...
26...
The countdown echoed through the sanctuary.
Every second sounded louder than the last.
Evelyn gripped the leather journal in one hand and William's notebook in the other.
Benjamin looked from the door to the hidden room.
"There may be another way out."
He began searching the bookshelves, running his hands along the wooden panels.
Nothing.
Anthony's voice came through the intercom once more.
"Evelyn, listen carefully."
"I'm almost at your position."
"But Richard's men are between us."
"If that door opens before I get there..."
"...don't let them take the journal."
The countdown continued.
18...
17...
Outside, Richard Holloway remained silent.
That silence was more unsettling than any threat.
Evelyn closed her eyes.
Her grandfather's words echoed in her memor
