Chapter 4 Sophia’s POV My legs still felt shaky as Ryan and I slipped out of the basement, the cool air from the stairs hitting my skin and making me pull my shirt down a little lower over my shorts. That close call with Mom had my heart racing way too fast, and not just from the fear of getting caught. Ryan's hand brushed against my lower back as we climbed the steps, his touch light but enough to send a fresh spark through me. We needed somewhere safer, somewhere with a door that locked. "Let’s go to my bedroom," I whispered, glancing back at him. His eyes met mine, dark and hungry, and he nodded without a word. The house was quiet except for the distant hum of the TV downstairs, Mom and Dad lost in their show again. We made it to my room, and I pushed the door shut behind

