The moon hung low in the sky, casting a pale light over the packhouse.
Elena moved silently, her steps light but determined. When she reached Kimberly's door, she knocked softly.
The door opened almost immediately, revealing Kimberly standing there, her face pale and eyes filled with fear.
"You came," Kimberly whispered, her voice trembling.
"Of course I came," Elena replied firmly as she stepped inside and shut the door behind her.
"Did you think I'd leave you to face this madness alone?"
Kimberly bit her lip, trying to hold back the tears that threatened to spill.
"I don't know what to think anymore. Everything feels like a trap. And now, leaving... it feels like running away."
Elena placed her hands on Kimberly's shoulders and looked her straight in the eyes.
"It's not running away. It's survival. Staying here will get you killed. Do you understand me? Killed."
