Sanctuary

As they approached the house, Nicole's eyes scanned the property, taking in the overgrown garden and the peeling paint on the front door. It didn't look like much, but Rachel seemed to sense her unease and placed a reassuring hand on her shoulder. "Trust me, this is the place," Rachel said, leading her up the path to the front door. The door swung open before they could knock, and a warm smile spread across the face of a woman in her mid-40s. She had a kind face and a messy bob of curly brown hair, and her eyes sparkled with a hint of curiosity as she took in Nicole. "Rachel, it's been too long," she said, enveloping Rachel in a tight hug. Rachel hugged her back, holding on for a moment before pulling away. "Thanks for taking us in, Lena," she said, her voice filled with gratitude. "We need a safe place to hide out for a while." Lena's eyes flicked to Nicole, and she smiled warmly. "You're welcome to stay as long as you need," she said, stepping aside to let them in. As they entered the house, Nicole was struck by the cozy atmosphere that filled the small space. There were books stacked haphazardly on the shelves, and the air was thick with the scent of baking. Lena gestured for them to follow her, leading them through a narrow hallway to a small kitchen. The kitchen was warm and inviting, filled with the scent of fresh-baked cookies. Lena gestured for them to sit down at the table, and she busied herself making a pot of coffee. As they waited for the coffee to brew, Rachel filled Lena in on their situation, leaving out no details. Lena listened intently, her face growing more and more concerned as the story unfolded. When Rachel finished, Lena sat down at the table, her eyes locked onto Nicole's. "You're safe here," she said, her voice firm. "I have some connections that will help us keep you hidden." Nicole felt a surge of hope at Lena's words, but it was short-lived. As she glanced out the window, she saw a black SUV parked across the street, its tinted windows reflecting the sun like a dark mirror. "Oh God," she whispered, her heart sinking. Lena's eyes flicked to the window, and her face went pale. "Get down," she said, grabbing Rachel's arm and pulling her towards the floor. As they hit the floor, Nicole heard the sound of shattering glass, and Lena's kitchen window exploded in a shower of shards. Coop's men had found them.