chapter one hundred and ninety-six

POV EMILY

"She has to be here."

I had heard that phrase before, several times. Ethan spared no effort in looking for me; I think five of his men had come here in just one week. I'm thankful I managed to hide every time.

My home. It was abandoned now. But this would be the only place in the world where I could feel safe, where all the best memories of my life were.

I tried to leave, tried to go back to my family, but I could barely speak to anyone on the street, let alone return to Tyler and talk to my children.

"We've searched everywhere, she's not here," another voice sounded, tinged with sadness.

I knew that voice.

"From what I know about her, I can assure you she's here, yes. This place is full of emotions that she'll need to find courage."

I remained hidden. That's exactly what I was doing. Trying to find courage.

There were two women, I could tell. One of them had a younger voice, I was almost certain I had heard it somewhere before.

I heard a sob and then silence, broken only by