#Chapter 64: Bravery

ELENA I stared at the vent. The tiny square opening near the ceiling still hung slightly ajar, just like it had when Aiden disappeared inside. I hadn’t moved since. Every muscle in my body ached from sitting so still, but I didn’t dare shift. If I moved, if I looked up too long, if I gave any sign that something was wrong, someone might come in. And if they came in? They’d see he was gone. There’d be no hiding it. No stalling. No pretending he was asleep or hiding under the cot. They’d know. And they’d sound the alarm. And Aiden— My throat clenched. He had to be out by now. He had to be clear. I tried to tell myself he was already far away, crawling through ductwork like a shadow, slipping through cracks no adult could follow. I told myself he’d get help. That someone would find him. But he was six. And this place was a maze. I tightened my fists in my lap, trying to keep my breathing slow. Quiet. Come on, baby. Just a little more time. Go, go, go. Then—