Chapter 17: Shadows in the Dark

I felt like I was living in a constant state of tension. Every movement I made felt calculated, cautious, as though the city I once loved had transformed into a labyrinth of shadows and hidden threats. The bustling streets and bright lights no longer brought comfort, only anxiety. Every noise in the night made me jump, every knock on the door sent my heart racing. We had poked the hornet’s nest, and I knew it was only a matter of time before Victoria struck back.

Ethan was a steady presence by my side, always calm and collected, but even I could see the cracks starting to show. He had taken every precaution to protect us—installing new security systems, hiring discreet bodyguards, even arranging safe houses in case things went south. But no matter what we did, the feeling of impending danger lingered, suffocating us.

One evening, after another long day of waiting, worrying, and getting nowhere, I was pacing around my apartment, unable to sit still. Ethan had gone to meet with a privat