The garden was silent, an unsettling calm pressing in on every side as I held Calix close, moving as quickly as I could through the shadows. His breathing was soft, steady—a tiny comfort in my arms as I weaved through the paths Julia had shown me in countless whispered conversations.
I leaned down, whispering, “We’re almost there, hold on to me a little more my son,” pressing a kiss to his forehead, which remained blissfully unaware of the fear I harbored right now that we’re both trying to make our escape. Each step felt heavier, my heartbeat roaring in my ears with every crackle of leaves beneath my feet.
The winding stone path opened before me, leading to the hidden alcove in the corner of the garden. There, as Julia had promised, thick vines concealed the narrow passageway. I steadie
