Chapter 236: The Deception (Part 1) (Katelyn's POV)

(Katelyn's POV)

I heard Harlan's footsteps echoing as he retreated down the hallway, and to my relief, I felt like I could breathe again.

It only lasted a moment though, and was quickly overshadowed by a crushing wave of defeat as my eyes darted around the room for the millionth time, desperately searching for an escape route I might have somehow missed.

Of course, there was nothing. No magical doors had suddenly appeared, none of the windows opened up onto lush green fields where I could disappear into the distance, there was no forgotten cell phone waiting on a desk that would allow me to call for help.

For a second, I clung to the hope that Tyler and Ryder would come bursting through the door at any moment. But deep down, I knew I was just setting myself up for disappointment.

They had no way of finding me. The harsh truth crushed me beneath its weight. I realized that if I ever wanted to see them again, I was going to have to figure this out on my own.

The admission felt like a ki