CHAPTER 45

"A few hours walk," Tiger admitted, his voice apologetic. "But it's the only safe option I know of right now."

The weight of their situation settled back in, heavy and oppressive. Relief at finding Olivia had been short-lived, replaced by the daunting reality of their precarious situation.

They were fugitives on the run, with an enraged Bobby and his men likely searching tirelessly for them.

But despite the fear and uncertainty, a flicker of defiance burned within Sarah. She wouldn't let Bobby win. She wouldn't let him break them. She was determined not to give up now that they had made this far.

Sarah took a deep breath and raised her shoulders. She responded, "Alright," in a strangely composed voice. "Let's take a nap. In the morning, we have a lengthy walk ahead of us."

Fitful sleep characterized the rest of the night, broken only by the creak of the ancient cottage and the rustle of leaves outside.