Avery , Lyra and Ryker ran through the darkness , their footsteps echoing off the trees . They had to put as much distance between themselves and Julian is guards as possible .
As they ran , Avery is mind reeled with questions . What had just happened . Why had Julian become so obsessed with her . And what did Ryker is intervention mean ?
Lyra is voice cut through her thoughts . " We need to keep moving , "As she panted . " Julians guards will be on our heels . "
Ryker nodded , his eyes scanning the darkness . " I know a place where we can hide , " he said . " Follow me ."
They ran for what felt like hours , their breath coming in ragged gasps . Finally , Ryker stopped in front of a small cottage , its door hidden behind foliage .
" In here ", he whispered pushing open the door .
Avery stumbled inside , her heart pounding in her chest . Lyra and Ryker followed close behind , their faces set with determination .
As they caught their breath , Avery turned to Ryker and asked . " Why did you help us ?"
Ryker is eyes were enigmatic . " Let us just say I have my reasons ," he said . " Julian is obsession with you is not healthy . He will stop at nothing to get what he wants ."
She felt a chill run down her spine . She knew Ryker was right . Julian is behavior had become increasingly erratic , and she had no doubt he would do whatever it took to capture her .
She knew that they could not stay in the cottage where they hid forever . They had to come up with a plan to ditch Julian is guards and make their way back to the safety of her own world .
But for now , they had to rest . They had to regroup and come up with a strategy.
As she fell a sleep , she knew tomorrow would bring new challenges . But she was ready and determined to escape Julian is clutches and make her way back home .
🤍🤍🤍