Inside the cramped storage space, Ivan held Everly close, and they both let out shallow breaths. He could feel her heart beating rapidly against his chest, matching his own.
After what felt like an eternity, Ivan reluctantly pulled back, his forehead resting against hers. Although they couldn't hear anything from behind the thick door, and even if they did, it would be barely audible, Ivan used his heightened werewolf hearing to listen intently for his parents' movements.
Mikhail's voice, still low, could be heard through the door. "Stay here," he told Svetlana. "I'm going to check something."
Svetlana sighed again but nodded, turning her attention back to the paintings. Mikhail approached the small door and reached out his hand to open it.
