ISAAC MORANO

**3**

Chapter 3- Normalcy

Catherine's morning was a flurry of activity as she prepared for her day. She moved with practiced efficiency, her mind focused on the tasks at hand. The scent of French toast, sizzling bacon, and freshly brewed coffee filled the kitchen, mingling with the bright aroma of orange juice. She set the table for Isaac, her movements calm and precise despite the lingering tension from the previous night.

Isaac emerged from the guest bedroom, his face a mix of weariness and gratitude. He blinked in surprise at the spread Catherine had prepared. Her warmth and kindness were evident in every detail, from the neatly arranged plates to the careful presentation of the food.

"Good morning," Catherine greeted him with a smile, setting a plate of French toast, eggs, and bacon in front of him. The vibrant colors and enticing aromas made the meal look almost comforting amidst the chaos.

"Morning," Isaac replied, his voice hoarse but sincere. He took a seat at the table, eyeing the food appreciatively. "This looks incredible. Thank you."

Catherine quickly ate her breakfast, taking only a few moments to enjoy the meal before she glanced at her pager. A sense of urgency settled over her as she noted the time. She grabbed her lab coat and bag, her movements brisk.

Before heading out, Catherine turned to Isaac, her expression serious. She handed him a burner phone. "This is for you. It's a secure line, one my husband used for work. Keep it with you at all times. Avoid going outside and keep the blinds down. The FBI and police are still searching the area. I'm heading to work for a 12-hour shift, but I'll check in when I can."

Isaac took the phone, nodding solemnly. "I understand. I'll stay out of sight and keep the phone close. Thank you for everything."

Catherine gave him a final reassuring smile before grabbing her coat and heading toward the door. "Take care of yourself, Isaac. I'll be back as soon as I can."

With that, she stepped out into the crisp morning air, her mind already shifting to the demands of her job at the hospital. The day ahead promised to be long and demanding, but she was determined to fulfill her responsibilities while ensuring Isaac's safety.

As Catherine drove to the hospital, her thoughts were a mix of concern for Isaac and the usual challenges of her medical duties. The hospital was a place of solace and distraction, but she knew the situation was far from resolved. The burner phone was a small but crucial link between them, and she hoped that it would provide a lifeline if Isaac needed assistance.

Back at the house, Isaac settled into a quiet routine, keeping the blinds drawn and staying out of sight. The security of Catherine's home offered him a temporary refuge, but the danger was far from over. He took a deep breath, trying to push away the stress of the situation and focus on the task of staying hidden.

As the hours passed, both Catherine and Isaac navigated their separate worlds, each facing their own set of challenges. The quiet resilience of Catherine's home, coupled with Isaac's cautious vigilance, formed a fragile but hopeful cocoon amidst the chaos of their circumstances.

Isaac carefully dialed his parents' number on the burner phone Catherine had provided. The phone's unfamiliar feel and the need for discretion added an extra layer of tension to the call. He had to be cautious—both the FBI and the police were actively searching for him, and he didn't want to lead them to his parents or risk endangering them.

The phone rang several times before his mother's voice answered, sounding concerned but steady.

"Hello?" His mother's voice cracked slightly, and Isaac could hear the worry in her tone. "Isaac? Is that you?"