Esme moved swiftly through the deserted hallway, her senses heightened as she kept an eye out, wary of any sign of Thadius or his beta. She knew they were likely aware of the situation by now, and every step forward required caution.
Hence, her mind raced as she ventured deeper, keeping herself on high alert.
Rounding a corner, she nearly collided with Donovan, who was descending the third staircase with the boys. Her heart fluttered at the sight of them, and the three boys were immediately flustered when she crouched to envelope them in her arms.
"I'm so glad you're safe," she breathed, her voice thick with emotions, and she felt them relax in her embrace.
She gently pulled back to inspect them, noticing how they had shed their disguises – they had changed back to their regular wears, and their faces clean of makeup.