The tension in the room was thick as Hanna, Finn, and Emily tried to come to terms with the latest turn in the game. Emily’s sudden arrival had brought them a temporary sense of relief, but it was quickly replaced by the overwhelming realization that they were now in more danger than ever before.
Emily’s breathing was still shallow as she clutched her phone. “Whoever this is, they’re not messing around,” she said, her voice shaking slightly as she sank onto the couch. “They wanted you to see that picture for a reason.”
Hanna felt a lump form in her throat as she glanced at Finn. His eyes were narrowed, focused on Emily, then drifting toward the door as if waiting for something—someone—to break the silence.
“They’re trying to scare us. But we can’t let them,” Finn said firmly, his voice low and full of resolve. His words were meant to be a rallying cry, but there was an undertone of concern that neither of the girls could ignore.
Hanna nodded, though her hands still trembled slightly as she pressed them against her knees. “We need to figure out who’s behind this before they make their next move.”
Emily swallowed hard, looking between Hanna and Finn. “We need to be ready for whatever comes next. It’s not just about us anymore—this person knows everything about us. Our movements, our weaknesses. We need a plan. And fast.”
Finn stepped closer to the couch, his posture more relaxed now, but his eyes still carried a storm of worry. “You’re right,” he said, running a hand through his hair. “We can’t wait for them to make the next move. We need to take control.”
Hanna looked at both of them, her chest tight with a mixture of fear and determination. “We’ve already done so much to expose Ciara. If it’s not her behind this, then we’ve got a new enemy, and they know exactly how to push us. We have to be strategic about this.”
Emily leaned forward, her hands clasped tightly. “We can’t keep reacting. We need to anticipate their next move.”
A knock at the door interrupted the silence. Three sharp raps.
Hanna’s heart skipped a beat, and she exchanged a glance with Finn. He immediately moved toward the door, placing his hand on the knob.
“Stay behind me,” he said quietly, his voice steady.
Hanna nodded, her breath caught in her throat, as the three of them waited. Time seemed to slow down. The knock felt like an invitation to danger.
“Who is it?” Finn called, his voice strong but betraying a hint of wariness.
Silence.
Then, a voice—low, calm, and chilling. “It’s me.”
Hanna froze.
It was Elordi.