The knock echoed through the small, rundown room, sending a jolt of fear through Leila’s body. She pressed herself against the wall, her breath coming in shallow gasps as she stared at the door. Ethan stood rigid, his eyes narrowing as he weighed their next move.
“Stay behind me,” he whispered, his voice barely audible as he edged closer to the door. His hand hovered over the doorknob, tense and ready. The knock came again, louder this time, followed by a chilling voice that sent shivers down Leila’s spine.
“Open up, Graves. We know you’re in there.”
Leila’s blood ran cold. They had found them.
Ethan’s jaw clenched, his eyes flicking to Leila. For a moment, she saw the war in his mind—fight or flee. But the moment passed as quickly as it came. He motioned for her to stay still, then si
