The pre-dawn hours were spent in frantic preparation. Victoria had taken charge with military precision, turning Sage's peaceful cottage into a command center. Maps were spread across the kitchen table, marked with defensive positions and escape routes. Sarah had volunteered to help coordinate supplies, though I could see the shell shock in her eyes every time she looked at Marcus's fangs.
"We can't stay here," Victoria announced as the first hints of sunlight crept through the broken window. "This location is compromised. Kieran will expect us to fortify and wait for him."
"So what do you suggest?" Dante asked, his voice still rough from Marcus's grip on his throat.
"We run," she said simply. "Keep moving, stay unpredictable. Force him to hunt us on our terms instead of his."
"I can't
