Max squared his shoulders, his gaze locked on the shadowy figure blocking their way. His jaw tightened as he pulled Sarah closer, shielding her with his body. The forest around them felt darker, colder—as if the very trees were holding their breath.
"Sarah," Max whispered, keeping his voice low, "no matter what happens, you don't let go of my hand. Promise me."
Sarah looked up at him, fear and determination battling within her chest. She swallowed, gripping his hand even tighter. "I won't, Max. I promise."
The man in front of them chuckled, a cold, hollow sound that echoed through the trees. "Such loyalty… but it's wasted, Sarah. Don't you see? You don't know half of what's going on. You're running in circles."
Max took a step forward, his voice steady but fierce. "If you think you can scare us, you're wrong. We're done playing your games."
