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Behind us—
The door creaks.
I spin.
Weapon up.
Tessa right behind me.
Ready.
But there’s no one there.
Just the empty shop.
The bell swaying slightly.
Like someone just walked out.
Seconds ago.
Close.
Watching.
Waiting.
Letting us see just enough—
To understand exactly what we’re up against.
I step forward, scanning the doorway, the street beyond.
Nothing.
No movement.
No sound.
But I feel it.
That presence.
Still out there.
Still watching.
And now?
It’s not just a threat.
It’s a promise.
48
Ace
The candles are still burning.
