Chapter 14 Mia
I hardly dare to breathe as I punch in Adrian’s phone code on his iPad. I had memorized it when he used it to change his notification settings as he was getting inundated with them this morning. I’m just praying that it’s the same. Relief floods me as the screen unlocks, and I swiftly pull up the settings to activate the live listen feature. Once the Air Pods are paired and ready, I slip back into the bedroom, pulling the covers over me just as Adrian steps outside to take a call. I can hear every word through the earbuds, his voice carrying the weight of a plan I’m afraid to know.
“I just think we’re moving too fast, that’s all,” he says, his voice low, as if reconsidering something vital. “I know that was the original plan, but I’m saying that the circumstances are different now.”
My heart aches, wanting to believe that maybe, just maybe, what happened between us last night affected him, too.
“I’m just saying that we could use her. If her brother isn’t going to respond to our offer and try to get her back, we should take advantage.”
The words feel like a punch to my stomach. I bite down hard, trying not to let out a gasp. "Use her"—the phrase echoes in my mind, each repetition twisting the knife deeper.
Adrian continues, oblivious to the turmoil his words are causing. “We have Vitale’s star negotiator. She could tell us about the deals with other families, what they’re planning. She’s worth more to us alive.”
I tear the Air Pods out, shoving them back into their case with trembling hands. Every soft word, every gentle touch last night now feels like a cruel ruse. Was I just a pawn? If so, what use do they have for me beyond information? Will I end up being passed around, humiliated, only kept alive for as long as I can prove useful?
No, I won’t let it come to that.
My heart hammers as Adrian’s words echo in my mind. “Use her... advantage…”
I can't stay here, and running without a plan isn’t an option. I recall an old ranger station from childhood hikes, abandoned but sturdy, just a mile from here. It’s risky in this storm, but it’s my best bet for shelter.
I move swiftly, searching Adrian’s bag for anything useful—finding a flashlight, thermal blanket, and his thick wool socks, which I pull over my feet. I mentally map the route, recalling the emergency fire trails leading south. They’re less direct, but they offer cover and might slow Adrian if he follows.
Quietly, I slip out the back door, adrenaline dulling the cold as I plunge into the forest. Each step crunches through snow, but I keep my breath steady. I won’t survive if I panic now.
Behind me, a low voice calls, “Mia?”
I don’t turn. The cabin disappears behind me as I plunge into the trees and snow drifts. I don’t think about anything other praying I stay far enough ahead of the traitorous man who starts chasing me.