Chapter 4 - Fractured Ties
The realization that Ethan’s captors were hovering nearby sparked an intense conflict between Elena and Richard.
"We need to pack up and leave the city, Elena!" Richard argued heatedly in their home office, tossing a stack of security brochures onto the desk. "We don't know who these people are! If they were capable of keeping a four-year-old child for four years, they are capable of anything!"
"And tear Ethan away from the only stability he’s had?" Elena countered, her voice trembling with emotion. "He just started trusting us! If we uproot his life now, he’ll think he’s being punished!"
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"I am trying to protect our children!" Richard shouted, before immediately lowering his voice, mindful of the kids upstairs. "If something happens to Sophie or Ethan because we were too arrogant to move..."
Unbeknownst to them, Ethan stood at the top of the staircase, listening to every word. The heavy burden of guilt washed over his young heart. He believed that his presence was tearing his family apart, putting the sister who saved him in mortal danger.
