𝑆𝐸𝐶𝑅𝐸𝑇𝑆 𝑜𝑓 𝐸𝑉𝐸𝑅𝐶𝑅𝐸𝑆𝑇 ( BOOK 1)

Chapter 18 : Silent Vigil

After the harrowing escape, the Bellweathers and William raced toward the pharmacy in the town of Evercrest, their bodies weakened from the frantic run. William's wound was worsening, and Peter was in dire need of medical attention. As they stumbled into the pharmacy, Susan and William rushed to the cashier.

"We need medical supplies, now! He’s been shot," Susan urged, her voice tinged with desperation.

The cashier, seeing their distress, quickly gathered the necessary items. William, despite the pain, managed to pay using his cards.

Inside the pharmacy, Peter lay on a bench, wincing in pain. Sol kept a vigilant watch outside, scanning for any signs of pursuit. The town seemed eerily quiet, giving them a brief respite.

After an hour, the makeshift surgery was completed. Peter was resting, his arm bandaged. Susan handed William some food and water. Penelope sat close by, visibly shaken by the recent events.

William, sensing her fear, spoke softly to the family, "I need to go back to the house and retrieve some essential supplies. I left cars and guns there. We’ll need them."

Sol immediately volunteered. "I'll go with you, Dad."

William hesitated, but Sol insisted with a determined smile. "You need someone to watch your back. Plus, who else can throw helicopters around here?"

With a reluctant nod and a chuckle, William agreed. "Alright, let’s do this."

The duo set off cautiously towards the house, remaining alert for any signs of danger. Upon arrival, they found the area deserted. The wreckage of the helicopter still smoldered, a grim reminder of their previous encounter. William couldn't help but quip, "Nice throw, Sol. You really gave them a flight to remember."

Sol smiled, appreciating the lighthearted moment amidst the chaos. Inside the house, they quickly gathered weapons, supplies, and anything else that could be useful. William also retrieved a car from the garage, ensuring it was ready for a quick getaway.

As they loaded the car, Sol asked, "Do you think we can really stay safe, Dad?"

William paused, then placed a reassuring hand on her shoulder. "We'll do everything we can to protect each other. We’re stronger together."

With the supplies secured, they drove back to the pharmacy. The journey was tense, but uneventful. Upon their return, they were greeted by Susan and Penelope, who were visibly relieved.

"Got everything we need?" Susan asked, her eyes scanning the supplies.

"Everything and more," William replied, handing over a bag of essentials.

Peter, still pale but stable, managed a weak smile. "Glad you’re back. Did you bring any souvenirs?"

Sol laughed softly. "Just a car and some guns. Nothing too fancy."

As night began to fall, they settled into the pharmacy, setting up a makeshift camp. The Bellweathers knew they couldn’t stay here forever, but for now, they had a moment of peace. William and Susan sat together, discussing their next steps, while Sol kept watch at the window, her eyes scanning the darkening streets of Evercrest.

"I saw someone," Sol suddenly whispered, her heart pounding.

Everyone tensed, but William remained calm. "We need to stay low. They’ll be looking for us."

Penelope, trying to lighten the mood, said, "Let’s just hope they’re not after our supply of bandages."

Despite the tension, the family shared a quiet moment of laughter. They knew the road ahead would be difficult, but they were ready to face whatever came their way, together.

Meanwhile, not far from Evercrest, Tilda sat in her car, plotting her next move. She was determined to finish what she had started, and she knew the Bellweathers wouldn’t stay hidden for long. With her men regrouped, she prepared for the final confrontation, unaware of the growing strength and unity within the family she sought to destroy.