The door handle abruptly ceased its rotation, an ominous sign that sent chills down Mara's spine.

A heavy silence enveloped the room, punctuated only by a muffled thud against the door—someone was trying to force their way inside.

Her heart thundered violently in her chest as she gripped a heavy crystal vase, its cool surface becoming warm against her palms. The knuckles of her free hand turned ghostly white as she clenched it tightly.

Don’t think. Move. The urgent voice of Elias echoed ...