#37 Lead in the Dark

Jake's POV

I gave Elsa one last reassuring glance before slipping past Sylvie and into the hallway. My mind was still reeling from the encounter. I was grateful to Elsa for her quick thinking, using the heat episode as a plausible cover. It was a clever distraction. But the implications it will bring- I had no idea!

As I descended the staircase, a chill crawled under my skin. My own house felt unwelcoming for a moment. Each footstep echoed my anxiety. I felt guilty to have left her alone. But if I had stayed, given her excuse, it would have been more suspicious. My heartbeat thudded loudly in my ears.

What bothered me most was Sylvie’s reaction. She was shocked to learn Elsa was going through the heat. But not purely out of concern for Elsa. Her concern-coated words had a hint of panic. The dread on her face, in her body language, was unmissable. I don't care at this point if she trusts me or not. But if I blew this contract with her, I was afraid she might take away Elsa. Right now,