The thunder of hooves grew louder, closer, until it seemed the very earth trembled beneath Shadow's charge.
Daphne's breath came too fast.
Lianna turned sharply to Emma, who had appeared in the doorway. The two women exchanged one look, silent but decisive.
"Come," Lianna said quickly, gripping Daphne's arm. "We must move now."
"What..." Daphne began, but Emma was already at her other side, tugging at her gently yet firmly.
"Daphne, please," Emma whispered, her voice trembling. "If he sees you right away, if he comes storming in here with all that fury, he'll break. You'll break. Let Aidan and Finn handle him first."
Daphne shook her head weakly. "It won't matter. He'll find me."
Lianna's grip tightened. "Then let him find you calmer, when he's had words with your brothers. Please, Daphne. Let us give you a chance to breathe."
