It was one of her favorite places in the refuge, a calm sanctuary away from the noise of survival and whispers of gossip.
The refuge, known as Aegis, was enormous—almost like a self-contained city.
It had everything one could need to live comfortably: a library, a gym, a cafeteria, a massive swimming pool, even a luxury cinema that still played old films to keep morale high.
At times, it felt less like a bunker and more like a luxury hotel hidden underground.
As she walked through the library aisles, her fingers lightly brushing the spines of old books, she spotted someone sitting quietly in a far corner.
Her steps slowed when she recognized him.
Ross.
He was alone, reading silently, his expression calm and unreadable.
The light filtering from the overhead lamps cast a soft glow over his face, making him look strangely peaceful—almost gentle, a far cry from the rumors surrounding his name.
Karen's mother lingered for a moment, observing him quietly.
