The moment I heard Castellano's voice, my blood ran cold. I froze, crouched low in the bushes with Ava and Martha, trying to keep my breathing steady despite the panic gripping me. His voice cut through the silence like a blade, calm and menacing, and it sent a wave of terror crashing over me.
I peeked through the dense foliage, just enough to see the edge of the clearing. Ethan was still standing, but barely. He was outnumbered, his face grim, and I could see the tension in his stance as he faced down the men surrounding him. Three black SUVs sat in the clearing, their doors wide open, and Castellano stood at the center of it all, his dark eyes scanning the area with deadly intent.
I pulled Ava closer, her small body trembling against mine as she clung to her stuffed rabbit. She had been so brave, but I could feel her fear now, and it broke my heart. I pressed a kiss to her forehead, whispering softly, "It's okay, sweetie. We're going to be okay."
