The safe house was quiet except for the soft crackle of the fire in the hearth. Outside, snow blanketed the forest, muffling the world beyond. Claire sat near the window, her breath fogging the glass as she stared out into the darkeness. Despite the warmth of the room, a chill lingered in her chest—the weight of everything they were fighting against. She's scared of everything that has been happening in her life lately.
John entered the room quietly, his gaze settling on her. She didn’t look up, but she felt his presence like a gentle warmth spreading across her skin.
“You should get some sleep,” he said softly, pulling a chair up beside her.
Claire shook her head, her voice barely above a whisper. “I can’t. Every time I close my eyes, I see his face—Robert’s. It’s like he’s always th
