Chapter 17 Shadows In The Dark

• Sophia felt like she was living in a constant state of tension, her every movement calculated and cautious. The sprawling city that had once been her playground now felt like a labyrinth of shadows and hidden threats. Every noise in the night made her jump, every unexpected knock on the door sent her heart racing. She knew that they had poked the hornet’s nest, and it was only a matter of time before Victoria struck back.
• Ethan was a steady presence by her side, but even his calm demeanor was beginning to show cracks. He had taken every precaution to ensure their safety, installing new security systems, hiring discreet bodyguards, and arranging safe houses where they could disappear if things went south. But no matter how many precautions they took, the feeling of impending danger was inescapable.
• One evening, after another long day of waiting and worrying, Sophia was at her apartment, pacing restlessly. Ethan had gone to meet with a private investigator they had hired to dig deeper into Victoria’s connections, leaving her alone with her thoughts.