Chapter FIVE - escape

Ivan carried Elen through the dark forest, sprinting beneath moonlit trees. He didn’t stop until his lungs burned.
Finally, they hid among thick roots and shadows.
Elen clung to him, crying.
“I’m sorry… I hid so much… this is all because of me…”
Ivan stroked her hair gently.
“If you’re not ready to tell me, I won’t force you. You don’t have to suffer.”
Her breath trembled.
“Ivan… the only home I have… is with you. I don’t want to lose you. I want to stay with you forever.”
His voice was warm, unwavering.
“Of course. You’re my wife. My family. I’ll protect you… even if it costs my life.”
They slept beneath the trees, holding onto each other like lifelines.
Morning came softly.
Ivan stood, offering his hand.
“Let’s leave this place. Somewhere nobody can find us.”
Elen nodded.
“Yes.”
But when they stepped onto the forest path—
Someone was standing there.
Tall. Dark. Not human.
Smiling with razor fangs.
“I’ve finally found you two.”
Elen’s face turned white.
“No… not them…”
The demon bowed mockingly.
“I am here only for her.”
Ivan raised his sword, eyes blazing.
“You’re not taking my wife.”
The demon grinned.
“Then you die first.”