Ethan POV
I was sitting beside Julia in our quiet apartment, her hand in mine, when my phone buzzed with an unfamiliar number. I nearly ignored it—another reporter, I thought, or a well-meaning friend offering support. But something in me made me check. As I read the brief, desperate message, my hands began to shake. Juliet is safe for now. Don’t call back. Motel near the highway, blue sign, end of town. Room 8. Please hurry but be careful—he’s unstable. I’m scared for her and myself.
My heart surged with hope and terror in equal measure. I handed the phone to Julia, watching her eyes widen as she read the words, and then I was on my feet, already grabbing my keys. “It’s her, Julia. Lila. She has Juliet. She’s trying to help.” My voice trembled, and for a moment I was just a father, desp
