Chapter 8

The silence in the cabin was almost deafening, broken only by the faint crackling of the candle's flame. Amelia's mind raced, seeking a way out of this dire situation when Gabriel burst into laughter, diffusing the situation. Amelia blinked in confusion, her anger and fear momentarily replaced by bewilderment as Gabriel's laughter filled the cabin. His jovial demeanor seemed at odds with the gravity of the situation just moments ago. Gabriel took a step forward, the boyish grin still on his face as he addressed Amelia. "You didn't really believe I was here to kill you, did you?" Amelia's brows furrowed as she regarded him cautiously. She couldn't comprehend the sudden shift in his attitude. Her gaze then darted to Claire, who had also relaxed, though she still bore the physical marks of their earlier struggle. "What is going on here?" Amelia demanded, her voice tinged with suspicion and confusion. Claire exchanged a glance with Gabriel before she spoke, "You would have to forgive m