David sat on the edge of the bed in the guest room, the lamp casting a soft yellow glow across the walls. Micah sat beside him, legs tucked under her, her hand resting on his knee. Miranda was asleep in the next room, the house quiet except for the faint hum of the air conditioner and the distant sound of waves from the beach outside.
David stared at his hands for a moment, then looked at Micah. “I keep thinking about Carolina. If she’s still alive… I have to find her. I can’t leave her out there.”
Micah’s fingers tightened on his knee. “I know. You should go. You have to.”
He met her eyes. “But Miranda. I can’t take her with me. It’s too dangerous. I need you to keep her safe. Watch her. Love her like your own. Can you do that?”
Micah’s smile was small and sad. “Of course. She’s alrea
