Emma POV

Morning light hit my face. Sharp and white. I had not slept. Every sound in the house felt like a threat. Even the wind sounded like Ethan at the door.

I sat on the bed. My hands stayed tight. I thought I had escaped. I thought silence meant peace. But Ethan's pride would never rest.

Daniel's voice came from the kitchen. Calm. Measured. He was making tea. Trying to hold on to quiet.

Then a car door slammed. Fast steps followed. My body went cold.

Daniel looked up. His face ...