Clara Bennett
“Ryder, something feels wrong,” I said, gripping his hand tighter as we walked out of the hospital together a few days later.
The sun was too bright, the air too fresh after being trapped inside for so long. My shoulder still ached under the bandage, but it was nothing compared to the fear that had settled deep in my chest. “I keep thinking they’re watching us. Victor. Francis. Both of them. They won’t just let us go.”
Ryder pulled me closer, his arm around my waist as we walked toward the car. His body was tense, but his voice stayed calm for me. “I know. I feel it too. But we’re not running anymore. We’re facing this head on. Together. I won’t let them touch you again.”
I looked up at him, my heart swelling with love even as the fear tried to choke it. “I believe you. I
