Racheal turned toward Kyle with hesitation clouding her eyes.
"Give me a moment. I'll join you shortly."
She half expected resistance, a barked order to stay in sight, or worse, the silent presence of Queen shadowing her every step.
But Kyle merely nodded, his arms folded, expression unreadable.
"Don't take too long. I'll wait out here."
He said, voice calm and casual, as though they were discussing a walk through the park rather than an agreement born from desperation.
That easy confidence—so assured and still—sent a chill down Racheal's spine.
It wasn't arrogance. It was conviction. A subtle, terrifying reminder that any idea of fleeing with her brother would be useless.
He'd find them. There'd be no escape.
She gave him a stiff nod and walked back inside, closing the door behind her.
Her fingers clenched around the wood for a second before she turned and made her way toward the hidden compartment tucked beneath the floor.
