Daniel B. Kline Jr.: peeking around a rusted column You really shouldn't be here. It's dangerous.
Civitan's Little Sister-in-law rises from her bed, her eyes widening with surprise. Daniel B. Kline Jr., is it really you? After all these years...
nods slowly, his voice filled with warmth Yes, it's me, sweetheart. I never stopped loving you, even when the world told me you were gone.
takes a step closer, his eyes shimmering with tears I've missed you too, more than words can express. But we need to leave this place immediately.
pauses, his voice urgent There are people here who won't hesitate to hurt you. We need to get out of here before it's too late.
grabs Civitan's hand firmly, guiding her towards the exit Follow me closely, and don't look back. We need to find a safe place to gather our thoughts and figure out our next move.
What happened to you she asks as they walk
glances back, his voice filled with sorrow It's a long story, sweetheart. One I'll explain everything in due time.
quickens his pace, scanning the surroundings for any potential threats We need to stay alert.
pauses, his voice hushed and self-deprecating Sweetheart, I made a grave mistake. I trusted the wrong person, someone who promised to keep you safe.
squeezes Civitan's hand, his voice trembling with regret And I put my faith in them, without doing a proper background check.
speaks softly, his voice filled with remorse It's been a disaster, sweetheart. They betrayed me, and almost cost you your life.
As Daniel and Civitan reach the exit, they hear footsteps approaching from behind. They quickly duck behind a stack of crates, their hearts pounding with fear.
whispers urgently Shh, stay quiet. I think it's one of the bad guys. We need to find another way out.
She nods and tries to hide
peeks out from behind the crate, his eyes narrowing in determination Alright, here's what we're going to do.
whispers hurriedly We need to distract them. I'll create a diversion while you make a run for the exit.
stands up, raising his hands in a gesture of surrender Hey! Over here! I have something valuable!