CHAPTER 37

Gabe's POV

I'm lying in bed, trying to sleep, but my mind is racing. I can hear footsteps outside my room, up and down the stairs, back and forth. At first, I think it's just the kids getting a glass of water or something, but then I hear it again, and again.

My instincts start to kick in, and I feel a surge of protectiveness. I throw off the covers and get out of bed, trying to be quiet as I make my way to the door.

I slowly turn the handle and peer out into the hallway. The coast is clear. I can see Emma's shadowy figure moving around downstairs, but everything seems fine.

I breathe a sigh of relief and rub my eyes. Maybe I'm just being paranoid. Maybe it's just Emma making sure the kids are okay.

I go back to bed, trying to shake off the feeling of unease. But I can't shake the feeling that something's off. I lie there, listening to the creaks and groans of the house, my ears straining for any sign of trouble.

But everything is quiet. The footsteps have stopped, and the house is s