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 darkness. Despite the warmth of the room, a chill lingered in her chest—the weight of everything they were fighting against - she was scared of everything happening in her life recently.
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. I'll keep watch.
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 alwa
