Sally's POV
Fresh from the shower, I felt human again, the dried blood finally washed from my skin and hair. Wrapped in one of Karl's oversized hoodies, I made my way downstairs where the gentle aroma of chamomile tea filled the air like a promise of peace.
Karl waited at the kitchen island, steam rising from the cup before him. His eyes found mine the moment my feet touched the bottom step. Exhaustion lined his features, but beneath it burned something fierce and unwavering that steadied my trembling nerves better than any reassurance could.
I settled beside him while Sean claimed the spot on my other side. The tea warmed my throat as I sipped, drawing a contented sigh from my lips.
"Better?" Karl's voice held genuine concern.
"Much better," I confirmed with a nod.
The illusion of calm shattered when the front door creaked open. My body tensed involuntarily before Ajax stepped inside, quietly closing the door behind him. Weariness hung over him like a heavy cloak.
