The cave was small, barely more than a hollow carved into the side a massive rock formation, but it was the best shelter we could find for the night. Nestled between towering stone pillars, it offered some protection from the relentless cold and the dangers lurking in the shadows of the forest. It wasn't ideal-cramped, uncomfortable, and far too exposed for my liking-but it was better than sleeping in the open, especially when we knew what prowled beyond the tree line.

Hesbeakins and Mother's forces were out there. Watching. Hunting For us,

1 shivered, wrapping my arms tightly around myself as I stood at the cave's entrance, staring into the darkness beyond the trees. The night was thick, almost unnaturally so, as it the very air carried hidden danger. The crescent moon hung high in the sky, its silver glow stretching across the treetops, casting ghostly shadones over the land. Under any other circumstances, it might have been beautiful Comforting, even. But tonight, it only made me feel more exposed. Vulnerable,

I tightened my grip around my arms, my breath coming out in visible puffs of air. Every rustling leaf, every distant snap of a twig sent a sharp jolt of tension through my body, I knew better than to let my guard down. We were being hunted.

A sound behind me a deliberate but soft step. I didn't turn right away, recognizing the presence before he even spoke. A moment later, a warm hand rested on my shoulder.

"You should get some rest," Isaiah said quietly. His voice was low, study, but laced with concern.

I turned slightly, meeting his dark eyes. Even in the dim moonlight, I could see the worry written all over his face. Isaiah was always the rational one, the steady presence when everything else felt like it was spinning out of control.

"I know," I murmured. "I just... I can't stop thinking about everything

His expression softened, understanding flickering across his features. "I get it. But you won't do us any good if you're exhausted. We

don't know what tomorrow w

will bring."

I let out a slow breath, nodding reluctantly. He was right, as usual. Peshing myself beyond my limits wouldn't help anyone-least of

all me.

With one last glance at the shadows beyond the trees, I stepped further into the cave, allowing Isaiah's presence to guide me back inside. Austin and Alex were already settling into what could barely ass as makeshift sleeping spots, spreading out blankets and positioning themselves as comfortably as possible on the rough, uneven ground.

cave walls did little to trap any warmth, and every gust of

the cave, glanced up from where he was adjusting his sleeping bag. His lips quirked into a smirk. "Stormi, you better pick a spot fast, or

know how

my eyes. "You two are

shrugged. "I'm just saying. We all know Alex is

wasn't an exaggeration. Alex's powers were tied

better than the rest of us. Unlike

settling down on the

space next to him. "C'mon, you know

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Chapter 182

but my body was already aching from the cold, and the

next

groaned. "Figures. The Inuman heater

ton pleased with himself. "What can ay? I'm

chuckled as he settled into his own space. "Just

the warmth of his body seeped into mine, and I nearly sighed in relief.

had to admit...

just starting to relax when I felt something hard

I stiffened immediately, my body

was low. A

He

can't help it. My hot

to my face, burning even hotter than his body heat. I

argue. "I'll try, but

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