Chapter 8

Maggie sat on a worn out couch just by the corner of Sarah’s sitting room sipping a cup of steaming tea. The living room was bathed in a warm, golden glow from the setting sun. The ticking of the clock on the wall echoed in the silence. 

It had been three long years since Raphael vanished from their lives, leaving behind a trail of unanswered questions. No one had heard from him in all that time, and even the rumors that once swirled around their small town had died down to mere whispers.

Maggie couldn't help but wonder if he had truly left, never to return.

At times, she pondered whether she was finally free from him. Perhaps he had accepted the fact that she would never allow him to take their kids away, or maybe he simply couldn't find them. Whatever the reason, Maggie felt a newfound sense of safety and liberation.

As she sat lost in her thoughts, the sound of the front door opening broke the silence. Maggie's heart skipped a beat, but she quickly realized it was only the wind. 

She chuckled nervously, her imagination playing tricks on her. Still, a part of her remained on edge, always anticipating Raphael's return.

Are you okay? Sarah said as she came out of her room startling Maggie a bit.

“No, it’s just… Never mind, I’m ok Maggie said with a smile.We’ll be heading to the apartment tomorrow morning” Maggie continued out of the blue.

Sarah's brow furrowed with concern as she observed Maggie's determined expression. 

"Why, Maggie? Are you sure about this?" she asked, her voice laced with worry. Sarah couldn't shake off the fear that Raphael might still be lurking, searching for Maggie and the kids.

Maggie took a deep breath, her gaze steady as she met Sarah's concerned eyes. "Yes, Sarah, I'm sure," she replied with a gentle smile. "I've thought about it long and hard. We can’t keep hiding here hoping. It's time for me to create a safe and independent life for me and the kids."

Sarah's grip tightened on her teacup, her mind racing with possibilities and potential dangers. "But what if Raphael finds out? What if he comes after you? We can continue to keep you safe here," Sarah pleaded, her voice tinged with apprehension.

Maggie reached out and clasped Sarah's hands, offering a reassuring squeeze. "I appreciate everything you've done for us, Sarah," she said sincerely. "You've been there for me through the darkest moments, and I'll forever be grateful. But it's time for me to stand on our own”

Sarah gave up already seeing there was no way Maggie was going back on her decision.

“But you know I’m always here if you need me right?” Sarah said

“Sure. Thank a lot” Maggie replied with a smile

“Anytime. Just promise me you'll be safe," Sarah whispered, her voice filled with a mix of worry and hope.

Maggie's smile softened, a blend of determination and appreciation lighting up her face.

"I promise, Sarah. I'll do everything in my power to ensure our safety. 

With a teary eye, Sarah embraced Maggie before going to bed.

The early morning sun bathed Sarah's front yard in a soft, golden glow as Maggie, Luke, and Leah stood near a waiting taxi, their belongings neatly packed and ready to go.

 It was a bittersweet moment as they prepared to embark on their journey to their apartment. Sarah stood beside them, a mix of sadness and pride evident in her eyes.

Sarah's voice trembled slightly as she spoke,

"I'm going to miss you all so much." She hugged each of them tightly, her embrace filled with warmth and affection.

Maggie’s voice choked with emotion. "We'll miss you too, Sarah. You've been our rock, our guiding light. We owe you more than words can express."

Luke and Leah clung to Sarah, their small arms wrapped tightly around her waist. "Aunt Sarah, you'll visit us, won't you?" Luke asked, his voice filled with hopeful anticipation.

Sarah crouched down to their level, her eyes sparkling with love. "Of course, my darlings. I'll visit as often as I can. We'll still be family, no matter the distance."

Leah planted a small kiss on Sarah's cheek. "We love you, Aunt Sarah."

Tears streamed down Sarah's face as she hugged them one last time. "I love you both more than words can say. Take care of your mama, and remember that you're strong and resilient. You can overcome anything."

Maggie straightened up and smiled at Sarah. "Thank you for everything, Sarah. You've been our guardian angel. We'll keep in touch."

Sarah nodded, a mix of pride and sadness in her gaze.

With a final round of hugs, Maggie, Luke, and Leah loaded their belongings into the waiting taxi. Maggie took a deep breath, steeling herself for the journey ahead. In no time, they arrived at their apartment.

Maggie stood in the doorway of her apartment, her heart pounding with a mixture of excitement and trepidation. Luke and Leah clung to her side, their eyes wide with anticipation. It had been a long journey, but they had finally returned to the place they once called home before seeking refuge at Sarah's.

Taking a deep breath, Maggie stepped inside, her eyes scanning the familiar surroundings. The space felt both comforting and strange, as if it had held its breath in anticipation of their return. She quickly went through each room, ensuring everything was in its rightful place, her senses heightened with caution.

Luke tugged on Maggie's sleeve, his voice filled with excitement. "Mama, can we go see our rooms?"

Maggie smiled down at him, her eyes softening. "Of course, sweetheart. Let's go see your rooms." She took his hand and led the way, their footsteps echoing through the empty hallway.

They entered Luke's room first, the walls adorned with his favorite superhero posters. His eyes lit up with joy as he took in the familiar space. "It feels good to be back," he murmured, his voice filled with a mix of relief and happiness.

Leah skipped into her room next, her eyes widening as she spotted her favorite stuffed animals waiting for her on the neatly made bed. She squealed with delight, throwing herself onto the bed and hugging her plush companions tightly. "I missed you guys!" she exclaimed, her voice filled with pure joy.

Maggie leaned against the doorframe, a sense of gratitude washing over her. This apartment had been their refuge in the past, and now it held the promise of a fresh start. The memories of fear and control seemed distant as she watched her children rediscover their familiar spaces, their laughter filling the rooms.

With a renewed sense of determination, Maggie walked through the apartment, her eyes scanning every corner, every crevice. She checked the windows, ensuring they were secure, and tested the locks on the doors, finding solace in their sturdy resistance.

Luke approached Maggie, his brows furrowed with concern. "Are we safe here, Mama? Is Daddy going to find us?"