Chapter 58

The cool night air wrapped around Erica and Julian as they emerged from the hidden ventilation shaft, breathing hard but alive. The roar of the confrontation still rang in Erica's ears, but the adrenaline surging through her veins kept her focused. They had barely escaped Ophelia’s trap, but it wasn’t over. Not even close.

They stood in the shadow of the estate, the moon casting long, jagged shapes on the ground. The estate behind them was a fortress of deceit and manipulation, a reminder of the woman who was always one step ahead. Erica clenched her fists. Ophelia had to be stopped—this game couldn’t go on much longer.

Julian surveyed the area, his sharp eyes scanning for any sign of danger. "We can’t stay here," he said quietly, wiping sweat and dirt from his brow. "They’ll be on us in minutes."

Erica nodded, glancing back at the mansion. She could still feel Ophelia’s presence in every shadow, lurking, mocking them. "We need to regroup. Find another way in."

But it was hard to focu