Chapter 11 - The Island
Julian flew to Martha’s Vineyard before sunrise.
Nora went with him.
Lily stayed close to her mother throughout the flight.
The safe house stood at the edge of the water.
No guards.
No cameras.
Only a weathered white door.
Julian knocked.
Nothing.
He knocked again.
A woman answered.
She was older.
Her hair was shorter.
There was a scar near her temple.
But Julian knew her instantly.
Claire.
Neither moved.
Four years disappeared in one breath.
Julian could barely speak.
“Claire.”
Her eyes filled with tears.
“You shouldn't have come.”
“I looked for you.”
“I know.”
“Why didn't you call?”
“Because they were watching you.”
He stepped closer.
Claire reached toward his face.
Then stopped.
“You have no idea how many times I wanted to.”
Julian swallowed.
“Lily knows you.”
Claire broke.
She covered her mouth.
Nora stepped forward.
“She knows more than you think.”
Claire looked past them.
Lily stood in the doorway.
The child stared at her.
Claire crouched.
“Hi, sweetheart.”
Lily tilted her head.
“You're the lady from my dreams.”
Claire began to cry.
Lily ran into her arms.
Julian turned away.
For the first time in four years, he allowed himself to cry too.
Then Claire whispered,
“We cannot stay.”
Julian looked at her.
“Why?”
“Because Vincent is not the enemy.”
“Who is?”
Claire lifted her head.
“The person behind all of this.”
“Who?”
Claire’s voice trembled.
May you like
“Cassandra.”
---
