The sound of the ceramic mug shattering against the wooden floor echoed sharply through the quiet, cozy chalet. The warm air in the room suddenly felt freezing cold as Clara stared out through the large glass window into the darkness of the snowy pine forest.

The heavy black SUV sat parked right at the edge of the private driveway. Its dark body blended seamlessly with the heavy shadows of the trees, but the faint, steady plume of white exhaust rising from the tailpipe proved that the engine was running. Yet, not a single headlight or dashboard light was turned on.

Lucian and Silas stopped moving instantly, their instincts kicking in...