Tobias perched on the table's brink, observing Liam, Lindy, and Jordan closely to evaluate their true characters. Having been in Harlow's shadow for a long time, the man appeared surprisingly composed, as though he had been anticipating this moment. The tension he brought with him was new and served as a reminder that their struggle for survival was no longer easy. They were engaged in a risky, high-stakes battle, with no assurance of emerging unharmed. Sitting opposite Tobias, Liam could sense the gravity of his words hanging in the air. The assurance that the situation was going to deteriorate significantly. "Are you suggesting that we should target Harlow's close group of associates?" Liam inquired, speaking softly. "However, these individuals pose a threat." "How can we engage with them without risking our own lives?" Tobias smiled smugly. "Harness the power of subtlety, Harper. Harlow relies on his people for information, yet they are also his vulnerability. They have knowledg

The atmosphere in the car was heavy as they left the safehouse. Carl was slipping in and out of awareness, his wounds proving to be more serious than initially thought. Liam focused on driving while his hand tightened on the steering wheel each time Carl groaned in the backseat. Lindy sat next to him, her hand on his leg, giving him a constant reassurance. She noticed the brewing storm within Liam, the burden of recent events weighing heavily on him. Jordan was in the rear with Carl, inspecting the injuries and administering pressure as needed. "We must take him to a hospital," Jordan said, speaking quietly yet decisively. "He won't succeed in this way." "No medical facilities," Carl whispered, his voice weak yet resolute. "Harlow is vigilant and observant at all times." "If we go there, he will locate me." Liam caught a glimpse of him in the rearview mirror. We cannot allow you to bleed to death, Carl. We will come up with a solution, but I won't let you die while I'm in charge."

Soft golden hues were cast across the room as morning sunlight filtered through the cabin curtains. The tension remained heavy like a lingering fog despite the uneventful night. While the group woke up, a tense tranquility filled the air. Huddled in a armchair next to the window, Lindy observed Liam quietly making coffee, his mind still weighed down by thoughts from the previous evening. Sarah and Mark, parents of the person, sought shelter in the tiny guest bedroom, quietly discussing their worries until the early hours. Their being there, though reassuring, carried an odd heaviness. It brought to mind for Lindy the shared responsibility they now had - it wasn't only about the festival or Harlow. It was about a more profound issue, something that had been developing long before the chaos started. Upon entering the room, the scent of fresh coffee lingered as Daisy confidently walked in, disrupting the quiet atmosphere. Good morning, everyone. I hope everyone is feeling a bit better

The moon's low position in the sky created eerie shadows over the silent town as Harlow walked towards the isolated house on the edges. Indoors, the lighting was low, yet it provided a slightly eerie glow to the surroundings. This was his safe haven - a distant retreat from the curious gazes of the town, the school, and all those who believed they grasped who he truly was. When he got home, Harlow found his wife Naomi sitting in the living room. Her usual grace and composure were replaced by a stern expression and piercing gaze as she looked at him tonight. She calmly mentioned you were tardy, staying seated. Their kids, Claire and Jacob, were upstairs, probably already in dreamland. Or, at the very least, that's the belief they hoped she would adopt. Harlow took off his coat, his thoughts filled with the school and his upcoming plans. "I had some matters to attend to.” Naomi's lips formed a tight line. "Commerce." "Correct." She spoke with a hint of contempt in her voice. Is your

Father Michael's words weighed heavily in the air, just like a dark and ominous storm cloud. Liam felt his heart pounding in excitement as he glanced at Elena, then returned his gaze to the priest. He couldn't stop thinking: Did Father Michael have hidden information, or was he just echoing the rumors they were already thinking about? The group remained immobile, each member contemplating the arrival of the priest, uncertain if it was a gift or a punishment. Father Michael, a man known for his peaceful demeanor and astute insights, had served as a spiritual mentor in the community for many years. However, his mere existence now held an unsettling heaviness. "Is it true?" Lindy shattered the quietness with her sharp voice, slicing through the tense atmosphere. Who is responsible for disseminating them? And for what reason at this moment? Father Michael moved ahead, his aged face clouded with worry. I've learned information during confession that makes me think Harlow's influ