Back at the pack house, Lia frantically stuffed clothes into her suitcase, her eyes darting nervously to the door.

Anxiety gripped her like a vice. If Andy had been caught, it was only a matter of time before her own secrets unraveled.

She could almost feel the blade hovering over her neck. Running—fleeing from New Age and the country—was the only way to protect herself and her daughter.

Little Anne sat on the bed, watching her mother with wide, innocent eyes.

“Mommy, are we going somewhere?” the child asked softly.

Lia forced a smile, trying to hide the fear in her voice.

“Yes, baby. Mommy’s taking us somewhere safe.”

Anne...