TripleTrouble

Marcus drove for hours, winding through the forest and dodging main roads. Julian's children were quiet, their eyes fixed on the passing scenery.

As the sun began to set, casting a golden glow over the forest, Marcus finally slowed the truck. They turned onto a narrow dirt path, the trees closing in around them.

The path opened up into a small clearing, where a cozy cabin sat nestled among the trees. Smoke drifted lazily from the chimney, carrying the scent of wood smoke and baking bread.

Julian's eyes narrowed, his mind racing with questions. Who lived here? And was it really safe?

Marcus caught his eye, his expression reassuring. "This is it," he said. "The safe house."

Julian nodded, feeling a glimmer of hope. Maybe, just maybe, they'd found a place to hide.

Marcus led them into the cabin, where a warm fire crackled in the hearth. The air was thick with the scent of baking bread and roasting vegetables.

A woman emerged from the kitchen, a flour-dusted apron wrapped around her waist. She smiled warmly at Julian and the children.

"Welcome," she said. "I'm Sarah. Marcus has told me so much about you."

Julian's eyes narrowed, his mind racing with questions. Who was Sarah? And how did she know Marcus?

But before he could ask, Sarah gestured to the table, where a hearty meal was spread out.

"Please, eat," she said. "You must be starving."

Julian hesitated, unsure if they could trust Sarah. But the children were already digging in, their eyes lighting up at the sight of the food.

He nodded, taking a seat beside them. As they ate, Julian couldn't shake the feeling they were being watched.

He glanced around the cabin, but saw nothing out of the ordinary. Still, the feeling persisted.