As Mara, Steve, and Stefan made their way toward the exit, the air in the facility grew tense. Just as they reached the hallway leading out, the sound of approaching footsteps made them freeze.
Then, a voice cut through the air, sharp and commanding.
"Where are they?"
Mara's blood ran cold. Philip.
From their hiding spot behind a stack of storage crates, they watched as their uncle strode into the facility, his expression cold and calculating. He was dressed sharply as always, but there was a flicker of frustration in his eyes.
"Sir?" Cai, the facility's manager, stepped forward, feigning confusion.
"My nephews and niece," Philip clarified, his tone clipped. "I know they were here. I have reason to believe they were." His gaze swept the room, sharp as a blade. "Where are they?"
Cai barely hesitated. "I'm afraid you've been misinformed, Mr. Shepherd. They haven't been here."
