The tension inside the house shifted instantly the moment the distant sounds outside grew louder and more coordinated, voices calling out orders as the search tightened and moved from open streets into private structures, and Lucas did not need anyone to confirm what was happening because he could already feel it in the way the atmosphere outside the walls had changed. The search was no longer limited to patrol routes, it had expanded into homes, and that meant their window was closing fast.
"They're entering buildings now," Tom said quietly from his position by the window, his voice low but urgent as he pulled back slightly, confirming what Lucas had already anticipated.
Lucas' expression hardened immediately as he looked toward the group and said, "We move now, no more waiting," his tone leaving no room for hesitation.
There was no argument.
