When She Rose From the Ashes (Natalie and Jensen) novel Chapter 529

Chapter 529: The Night Hunt

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“Daddy, if Grandma found out you used her name to trick my sister like that, do you think she might come visit you in your dreams tonight?” Sean’s small voice carried a mix of curiosity and mischief.

Baron chuckled as he ruffled Sean’s perfectly combed hair with a playful grin. Yet this time, Sean didn’t pull away. Baron’s words, though meant to be lighthearted, stirred an unexpected unease within the boy. “What are you watching so much, little man? Remember, science is real. When someone dies, the light inside them goes out. There’s no such thing as ghosts or visits from the dead. So, be a good son while I’m still here. This life, our time together—that’s all we’ve got.”

The room was quiet except for the soft sound of Sean’s breathing as he slowly nodded, comforted by his father’s firm but loving tone. Natalie, observing the exchange, quickly stepped in to soothe the children further. Her voice was calm and tender, like a gentle lullaby after a long day, wrapping the room in a cozy warmth. It was the kind of voice that made you want to hold her close and never let go.

Gradually, the children’s eyelids grew heavy, and they drifted into peaceful sleep. After tucking them in with a light blanket, Natalie allowed herself a brief sigh of relief. Baron took her hand gently, guiding her out of the softly lit children’s room.

In the living room, Waylon and Flynn were already waiting, their faces expectant. Natalie hesitated for a moment, her gaze flickering to Baron, searching for a clue about what was coming next. Baron simply smiled, his eyes sparkling with a mischievous glint.

“Honey, tonight we’re going ghost hunting,” he said with a playful grin.

Natalie laughed softly, the tension easing from her shoulders. “You just told Sean to believe in science, and now you want to chase ghosts?”

Baron’s smile deepened. “The kind of ghost we’re after tonight isn’t the unscientific kind.”

He took her hand, pulling her toward the sofa, then poured her a glass of warm water with a careful tenderness. Waylon watched the scene with a quiet nod of approval, recognizing the familiar gesture from his own family life. He was growing increasingly fond of his son-in-law. Flynn, on the other hand, looked on with a hint of disdain at Baron’s eagerness, feeling a bit overshadowed as the older brother. He had wanted to offer Natalie a drink himself but had reluctantly settled for sipping his own water after Baron beat him to it.

Baron settled beside Natalie and began recounting the conversation he had with Hansel about Jensen. When he mentioned “LN-380,” Natalie’s expression shifted, a flicker of surprise crossing her face. Baron noticed immediately.

Waylon nodded in agreement. “What’s the plan then?”

Baron’s smile turned a little cunning. “If Loretta beats us to Rachel, then we have to make sure Loretta doesn’t get there at all.”

“That sounds risky,” Natalie said, frowning thoughtfully.

“Loretta cares deeply about Jensen,” she continued, her voice soft but firm. “If I didn’t know the truth, I wouldn’t believe she isn’t his biological mother. She’s invested so much—years of love and effort. Their bond is real. Plus, Jensen’s current position is tied to her own future security. She won’t just abandon him.”

Baron nodded slowly, appreciating her insight. “Exactly. That’s why stopping Loretta is crucial.”

The room fell silent for a moment, heavy with the weight of the coming night’s uncertainty. Outside, the city lights flickered faintly through the windows, casting long shadows that seemed to echo the hidden battles yet to come. Together, they prepared for the hunt that would unfold under the cover of darkness, determined to uncover the truth no matter the cost.