CHAPTER 328

ARIA’S POV

We spot three motorboats speeding towards us, slicing through the water with alarming urgency. Something about them feels wrong, and my heart drops. I know neither my brothers nor the rescue team would arrive in such boats. The vessels are small, rugged, not the kind of craft used for rescue missions. My eyes dart to Adam, and I see the same realization flash across his face. His frown deepens, and in an instant, I feel his hand clasp around mine, firm and protective. The tension in the air thickens, and I can feel the first stirrings of fear clawing at my chest.

As the boats pull up to the shore, my breath catches in my throat. The men who step out are not rescuers. They’re rough-looking, with sun-weathered faces and eyes that gleam with a cold, predatory sharpness. Their clothes are worn, a mishmash of utility and intimidation.

Some wear tattered jeans and boots, others cargo pants tucked into heavy-duty combat boots. Bandanas and headscarves cover their heads, some sport