Emily’s POV

The hidden house was deathly quiet, save for the soft hum of the refrigerator in the open-concept kitchen.

While Daniel was out on the back porch taking a breath of crisp country air, I reached into the coat pocket where he'd stashed my phone, slipping it out as quietly as I could.

My thumb pressed the power button. The screen glowed to life, throwing harsh white light across my face.

Please no. Please tell me it hasn't started yet.

I opened my browser with shaking fingers, my heart hammering against my ribs like a trapped bird. I typed in Belmont Student Forum, then checked the local city gossip...