With the door behind me clicking softly, I emerged from the secret room. I didn't want to wake Matilda, who was sleeping soundly on the bed. Tension obscured my thoughts, and my chest felt constricted.

Reasons for why all of this had to occur at this time.

We were very close to sealing Rhys at this point.

The corridor was dark and silent as it extended in front of me. Shadows were created by the moonlight spilling through the big windows. I pushed myself up against the wall. Care had to be ...