Chapter 49 - No More Running
Daniel started throwing clothes, emergency cash, and ammunition into a duffel bag. Every movement was quick and decisive. But as I stood there, looking at the house we had repaired with our own hands, at the paintings we had bought together at the local market, a fire sparked in my heart.
I walked over and placed my hand on the bag, stopping him.
"No, Daniel."
He froze, looking at me in confusion.
"What are you saying? We don't have time for this!"
"We’ve run enough," I said, my voice firm, my gaze unwavering. "For three years, we’ve changed our identities, moved six times, and lived in the shadows. For the first time, we have a place we call home. I won't let a ghost take that away."
"You don't understand how dangerous Kael is!" Daniel raised his voice, his worry evident. "He’ll burn this place to the ground with us inside!"
"Then let him try," I replied. "If we run, he’ll hunt us to the ends of the earth. The only way to end the fear is to face it. Right here. Right now."
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Daniel stared at me. He saw the resolve in my eyes that couldn't be shaken. His shoulders slowly slumped. He understood I was right. Running was just delaying the inevitable.
"Fine," Daniel said, his voice dropping, carrying the breath of a true warrior. "If we stay, this house becomes a fortress."
