Zilia and Idris slipped out of the palace under the cloak of dusk. She hailed a cab, paid the driver generously, and gave clear instructions: "Take us to the East border."
Idris climbed in silently, offering no protest. Though anxiety churned in his gut, he kept it hidden. He knew Casaio would never forgive this betrayal, but he also knew his sister's decision wasn't made lightly. She was chasing a future, one not haunted by the shadows of their past.
As the cab picked up speed, Zilia stared at her phone, her thoughts racing. 'I need to get rid of this. If I don't, Casaio will find me. My scent is gone now, he can't track me anymore. I'm safe… for now.'
She rolled down the backseat window, tossed the phone onto the roadside, and shut the glass firmly. Leaning back into her seat.
Idris shifted closer, resting his head against her arm. Without a word, Zilia slid her hand to his hair, gently stroking it.
