Shadows of Trust

Avery, Lucas, and Jess sat around a homemade map, contemplating their next move, and it felt suffocating in the safe house. Damien's betrayal hung heavy in the air, a continuous reminder of how easily everything may unravel.

"We need help," Jess muttered, her voice hoarse with worry. "Someone who knows the campus inside and out."

Lucas nodded grudgingly. "Someone with connections we can trust."

Avery's eyes brightened up. "I'm Professor Russo. If anyone can guide us through this catastrophe, it's her."

The mention of Elena Russo lit a spark of hope in their worn cheeks. The professor had been Avery's anchor throughout her stay at Blackthorn, a mentor who appeared to comprehend the delicate balance between academia and its shadowy underbelly.

"I'll contact her," Avery said, bringing out a burner phone. "If we're lucky, she might even know something about Nikolai's plans."