The narrow maintenance passage was barely wide enough for one person. The metal walls pressed close on both sides, and the air felt heavy and warm, carrying the distant smell of smoke and saltwater. The ship groaned around them, each sound reminding them that time was running out.Sophia led the way, moving quickly but carefully. Daniel followed behind her, quieter now, more focused. Victor and Emma came next, both still checking their devices even as they moved. At the back, Lewis stayed close to Elizabeth, not touching her, but never more than a step away.The passage sloped slightly upward, then turned sharply. The lighting flickered, then dimmed again, forcing them to rely on instinct more than sight. A sudden tremor ran through the ship, stronger than before, and the entire passage shook.Elizabeth lost her balance for a second.Lewis caught her immediately.His hand closed around her arm, firm and steady. “Careful.”“I’m fine,” she said, but her voice was softer now.He didn’t l
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