**Chapter 4: Shadows in the Night**

As they pulled back from the hug, Ashley's gaze drifted back to the window, her eyes scanning the darkness. The storm had indeed subsided, leaving behind an unsettling calm. The trees swayed gently in the breeze, their branches creaking softly, but Ashley's attention remained fixed on the figure she had seen standing in the shadows. She felt a shiver run down her spine as she wondered who it was and what they wanted. Ashley's mother followed her gaze, her expression concerned. "What is it, kiddo?" she asked, her voice low. Ashley hesitated, unsure if she should share her concerns. "I thought I saw someone outside," she said, her voice barely above a whisper. Her mother's eyes narrowed, her gaze scanning the darkness. "I didn't see anyone," she said, her voice firm. "But let's go check anyway." Together, they walked to the window, peering out into the night. The street was empty, the only sound the distant hum of a car driving by. Ashley's mother turned to her, a reassuring smile on her face. "It's probably just your imagination," she said. "You've been under a lot of stress lately." Ashley nodded, but she couldn't shake off the feeling that someone was watching them. She glanced around the room, her eyes scanning the shadows, but there was no one there. As they stood there, a knock at the door made them both jump. Ashley's heart skipped a beat as she looked at her mother, who raised an eyebrow. "Who could that be?" she wondered aloud. Ashley shrugged, her mind racing with possibilities. She felt a sense of trepidation as she followed her mother to the door. Who was on the other side, and what did they want? As they approached the door, the knocking grew louder, more insistent. Ashley's mother hesitated, her hand on the doorknob. "Should we answer it?" she asked, her voice uncertain. Ashley nodded, her curiosity getting the better of her. "I think we should," she said. Her mother took a deep breath, then turned the handle and opened the door. A figure stood on the porch, shrouded in darkness. Ashley's heart skipped a beat as the figure stepped forward, revealing a face she knew all too well. It was her father's brother, her uncle Jack. He looked worn and weary, his eyes sunken with fatigue. But it was the look of determination on his face that made Ashley's heart sink. "I'm here to help," he said, his voice firm. "I've come to take you both away from this place." Ashley's mind reeled with questions, but before she could ask any of them, her uncle Jack stepped forward, his eyes locked on hers. "But I have to warn you, kiddo," he said, his voice low. "We're not the only ones who are looking for you."