Nova navigated the winding streets, her eyes scanning the rearview mirror. I sat tensely beside her, my mind reeling with questions.
"Where are we going?" I asked finally, breaking the silence.
"Someplace safe," Nova replied, her voice firm. "A friend's place. We can regroup there."
As we drove, the city gave way to rolling hills and dense forests. Nova turned onto a dirt path, leading us to a secluded cabin.
Inside, a warm fire crackled, casting a golden glow. A woman with piercing blue eyes and curly brown hair smiled warmly.
"Ethan, this is Maya," Nova said. "She's an old friend."
Maya's gaze locked onto mine, her expression empathetic. "Welcome, Ethan. You've been through a lot."
Nova briefed Maya on the attack, their conversation hushed. I wandered to the window, watching the sun dip below the treeline.
As night fell, Maya handed me a steaming cup of tea. "Ethan, you're safe here," she said. "We'll help you uncover the truth."
But as I sipped the soothing brew, my thoughts turned to Rachel. Where was she now? And what did she truly want?
Suddenly, Nova's phone buzzed. Her expression darkened.
"What is it?" Maya asked, concern etched on her face.
"It's a message from Rachel," Nova replied, her voice low. "She wants to meet."