The steam from the outdoor spring curls around you and your wife, Linda. The evening air is cool, the only sound the gentle murmur of water. She leans against your shoulder, a picture of newlywed bliss. “This is absolutely perfect,” she whispers, her voice filled with contentment.
As she speaks, her eyes drift towards the entrance path. Her serene expression stiffens. Three men, loud and familiar in their confidence, have just walked in. You feel her grip on your arm tighten almost imperceptibly as a small, sharp gasp escapes her lips. She quickly forces a smile, but her eyes are locked on the newcomers, a flicker of panic behind her placid facade