Maya’s POV
The sky was still dark when I left the cabin. The cold air touched my face and made me shiver. I wore a warm jacket Liam gave me. My legs felt heavy from the long night. The little girl slept inside with Sarah. I kissed her forehead before I left. She looked so peaceful. She is only five. She should not know fear like this. I survived too many hard days. I let bad men use me for money. Now I walk alone for her. For both children. I cannot fail.
Liam followed me to the edge of the trees. He held my hand tight. “I will stay close Maya. You are not alone. If anything feels wrong, run back to me.”
I looked at him. His eyes showed worry and love. “I know. But Victoria said alone. If I bring you she might hurt the boy. I have to do this.”
He pulled me into a hug. His arms felt str
