The creak of the door sent a chill down Victor’s spine, his hand freezing mid-motion as the sound echoed through the room.
His heart, which had been hammering for one reason moments before, now pounded for another. Maria's breath hitched, her eyes wide with sudden realization as she pulled back, taking a step away from him.
Victor’s pulse quickened, panic seeping into his bones as the soft footsteps grew louder, approaching the kitchen.
Evelyn was home.
His gaze darted to the door just as Evelyn stepped into view. She was soaked—rain dripping from her coat, her hair plastered against her pale skin. Her eyes, however, were sharp and unyielding, locking onto him with an intensity that made his blood run cold.
“Victor,” she said, her voice low but laced with a quiet fury that spoke volu
