the strangers

Chapter 7

As the group of men approached, I tried to stay hidden behind the tree, but my heart was pounding so loudly in my chest that I was sure they could hear it. Maximus was scanning the area, searching for me, and I knew that if he found me, it would be the end.

Suddenly, a hand reached out and grabbed me, pulling me into a nearby bush. I turned around to see who had saved me and saw a young woman with dark hair and piercing brown eyes.

"Who are you?" I asked, still trying to catch my breath.

"My name is Ava," she said.

Before I could ask any more questions, she led me through the woods, away from Maximus and his men. We ran for what felt like hours, until we finally reached a small, hidden cabin deep in the forest.

As we entered the cabin, I couldn't help but notice how cozy and warm it felt inside. "This is my home," Ava said, "you're safe here."

"Thank you," I said, still in shock from what had just happened. "I don't know how to repay you."

"Don't worry about it," Ava replied