Chapter 6 - The Fortress in the Woods
The safehouse was a massive cabin hidden deep in the Canadian pines.
It was surrounded by high-tech security cameras and steel gates.
Once inside, Damian locked the heavy deadbolts.
“Don't go near the windows,” he instructed.
Emma clung to Claire’s leg, her small face pale.
“I’m hungry,” she whispered.
Damian immediately walked to the kitchen.
He opened a fully stocked pantry, pulling out bread and peanut butter.
He made a sandwich with precise, careful movements.
He cut it into small triangles and placed it on a plate.
He walked over and knelt in front of Emma.
“Here you go, Emma.”
Emma looked at the sandwich, then at Claire.
Claire nodded stiffly.
Emma took a triangle and took a bite.
“Thank you, Mr. Damian.”
“You don't have to call me Mister.”
“What should I call you?”
Damian looked at Claire. His dark eyes were full of a painful, unspoken question.
Claire looked away. She wouldn't give him permission. Not yet.
“Damian is fine,” he said softly, standing up.
He walked to the living room and began cleaning a handgun he pulled from a lockbox.
Claire followed him, leaving Emma eating at the kitchen island.
“How long do we stay here?”
“A few days. My men are hunting Thorne right now.”
“And if they don't find him?”
“They will.”
Claire crossed her arms.
“You said you watched me for four years.”
“Yes.”
“Did you know when she took her first steps?”
Damian paused. He didn't look up from the gun.
“It was a Tuesday. She was holding onto the edge of the coffee table.”
A tear slipped down Claire’s cheek.
“You stole that from yourself.”
“I traded it for her life.”
“Was it worth it?”
Damian finally looked at her.
“Every time I saw a picture of her smiling, yes.”
The radio on the table suddenly crackled.
May you like
Silas’s voice came through, distorted by static.
“Boss. We have a problem.”
