THE ROAD HOME

CHAPTER THREE : THE LIGHTHOUSE

They moved quickly through the town, staying in the shadows. The wind howled through the empty streets, carrying whispers—the voices of the town itself.

By the time they reached the lighthouse, the sun had vanished, leaving only the moon to cast eerie silver light over the landscape. The creatures would be waking soon.

Ethan led the way, his heart hammering as they broke open the rusted door and stepped inside.

The air was damp, and the scent of saltwater and decay filled their lungs. The wooden stairs creaked as they descended into the basement, where they found a stone archway covered in ancient symbols.

Noah ran his fingers over the markings. "This is it."

Ethan turned to Jonah. "What now?"

Jonah swallowed hard. "We activate it."

Outside, a scream split the air. The others were buying them time—but not for long.

Ethan, Noah, and Felix worked quickly, tracing the symbols with their hands. The archway shimmered, a thin veil of light forming in its center.

Beyond it, they could see a road. A gas station. The real world.

Ethan's breath caught in his throat. They had done it.

Then the ground began to shake.

The creatures had felt the portal open.