Chapter Two: Sanctuary in Shadows

                                    

                                          
A/N / Disclaimer!!!!!    
I'm extremely sorry for the delay in the story, I will admit that it is my fault. I have been procrastinating on the story due to school, and just feeling exhausted and would like to let the audience know that every two weeks on a Sunday at 12:00pm in Central Time (CT) I will be uploading a new chapter. This gives me about 2 weeks to plan, write, and balance school and work on top of this. I really appreciate the patience that is being produced by the audience. I really do appreciate it. Thank you all for reading my story. 
You let her words sink in just a little bit before responding. "I want to go home." You whisper barely audible.
Natasha hears your whispered plea and her heart cracks anew. She knows how much you long for the comfort and security of your own home, but she also understands the grave danger that lurks outside these walls.
"Oh, Evangeline..." she whispers back, her voice heavy with sorrow. "If only it were that simple. But those men, they won't stop until they've eliminated every trace of you. And if they find you at your fathers estate. God only knows what they'll do."
Natasha takes a deep, shuddering breath, steeling herself for her next words. "The truth is, baby girl, your safer here with me than anywhere else. At leased for now, this place is our sanctuary, our haven from the chaos outside."
She steps closer, her hands finding your waist and pulling you against her chest." This time once you enter her embrace, you realize that she will only keep putting you in her embrace, so you accept it. You wrap your arms around her waist, laying your head on her chest, sniffling. 
Natasha notices your sniffles and instinctively wraps her arms tighter around you, holding you close as she rocks you gently. "Shh, it's okay, sweetheart. I know it's hard, but try to calm down. We'll get through this together. I promise." 
Leaning in, Natasha presses a tender kiss to the top of your head, inhaling your scent and letting it soothe her frayed nerves. "You're safe now, Evangeline.. Here with me, no one can hurt you. I won't let them."
Natasha continues to stroke your back, her touch a steady, comforting rhythm. "We'll stay hidden away for as long as it takes. Until the heat dies down and we can plan our next move without risking your life. Does that sound better, baby girl?" You nod slowly, hesitantly and whisper a soft shallow "Okay."
Natasha smiles softly, relief washing over her as you nod and whisper 'okay'. She kisses your forehead again, her lips lingering for a moment longer than necessary. "Good girl. That's all I ask of you right now - trust in me and this plan. I know it's scary, but I'll take care of everything, I promise"
Natasha guides you over to the plush couch, helping you sit down before settling beside you. She keeps an arm draped over your shoulders, offering support and comfort. "Now, let's get you warmed up and comfortable, shall we? It's been a long, stressful night, for the both of us." 
With a mischievous glint in her eye, Natasha pats the empty space beside her hinting you to come closer to her. "Come here, doll. Snuggle up close and let me keep you cozy." You shake your head at her command. "May I go shower?" You ask her, your voice is gentle and soft. 
Natasha raises an eyebrow slightly at your request, a hint of amusement playing on her lips. "A shower, huh? Well, I suppose you could use a good wash after tonight's events. Just be quick about it, alright?"
She stands up and extends a hand to help you rise from the couch. "There's a guest bathroom just down the hall, second door on your left. Towels are already laid out for you. And remember, lock the door and keep the noise down. We don't want to draw any unwanted attention." 
Natasha walks you tot he bathroom making sure you have everything you need before turning to face you. "Take your time, but don't linger. Once your done, meet me back here and we'll discuss our next steps. Deal, baby girl?" You nod in response, not wanting to make her upset in any way,