He's scared," Ethan replied firmly. "And scared people do desperate things." He tightened his grip on the rolled parchment, his jaw clenching. "But I swear, if he's setting us up, I'll make sure he regrets it."
A sharp rustling in the bushes made them both freeze. Avery grabbed Ethan's arm, her nails digging in. "Did you hear that?"
Ethan nodded, his other hand reaching instinctively for his dagger. "Stay close."
The sound came again, closer this time. Avery's breath hitched. "What if it's them? What if Liam's men—"
"Quiet," Ethan hissed, cutting her off. His eyes scanned the dense foliage, every nerve on edge.
Seconds passed, each one stretching unbearably. Finally, a rabbit darted out from the underbrush, disappearing into the shadows.
Avery exhaled sharply, her shoulders sagging. "I hate this. Every sound feels like a death sentence."
