Chapter 7
Robert Hale’s voice was calm.
That was what scared Brian most.
Not rage.
Not panic.
Calm authority.
Sarah turned slightly so the phone’s speaker faced away from Lily.
Before she could say more, Robert asked, “Where are you?”
“Brian’s house.”
“Is Lily with you?”
“Yes.”
“Is she safe?”
Sarah looked back through the doorway.
Brian stood at the edge of the dining room, phone in his hand, watching her.
Donna hovered behind him.
Emily was still recording.
“Not here,” Sarah said.
Robert’s voice changed.
Not louder.
Harder.
“I’m on my way.”
In the dining room, Brian’s phone began vibrating.
Once.
Then again.
Then again.
His anger slipped.
Something pale moved through his face.
Donna noticed immediately.
“What is it?” she whispered.
Brian looked at the glowing screen but did not answer.
No notifications were readable.
No names shown.
But Sarah saw enough.
Robert had made one call after answering hers.
Maybe more.
Brian’s confidence began to drain from him before anyone powerful even entered the house.
Sarah tightened her hold on Lily.
The door was open.
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The way out was real.
Read the full story 👉 Robert did not need to threaten Brian; one calm sentence and a few phone calls were enough to change his face.
