Chapter 223: A Fractured Union

Amelia sat by the window, the cold light of dawn casting shadows across her face. The mountain safe house had become their refuge, but the sense of security it provided was fleeting. Blackwood might have been defeated, but his legacy lingered, casting a long and ominous shadow over their victory. "Ethan, we need to talk," Amelia said softly, turning away from the window. Ethan looked up from his place at the table, concern etched on his face. "What's on your mind?" he asked, standing and crossing the room to join her. "Something doesn't feel right," she admitted, her voice barely above a whisper. "I can't shake the feeling that we're missing something." Ethan took her hand, squeezing it gently. "We've been through a lot, Amelia. It's natural to feel uneasy." Amelia shook her head, her eyes filled with worry. "No, it's more than that. I think there's another player in this game, someone we haven't accounted for." Before Ethan could respond, the door burst open and Jack stormed in