The rustle in the bushes sent a wave of fear coursing through Isabella. She turned sharply, her heart pounding in her chest. Jonathan's eyes widened, and he instinctively stepped closer to her, shielding her from whatever might be lurking just beyond the trees.
"Stay behind me," he whispered, his voice low but urgent.
Isabella's mind raced as she glanced around, searching for any signs of danger. A chill ran down her spine; they had come too far to be caught now. Whatever secrets Jonathan held could finally shed light on the truth about her mother's death.
But the rustling continued, accompanied by the sound of heavy footsteps. Just as Isabella's breath hitched in her throat, a figure stepped into view—a tall, menacing silhouette that made her stomach drop.
"Going somewhere, Isabella?" the figure said, a smirk playing on his lips.
