39 Asking Timothy

David

Timothy appeared shaken, yet surprisingly composed in my presence, despite being unfamiliar with me. I couldn't help but wonder what had transpired in that place to make him find comfort in the company of strangers.

Luis came back carrying takeout from a neighbouring town. As I saw the takeout boxes, it dawned on me that our circumstances had truly shifted. There was a time when we wouldn't dare support businesses outside Howler's settlement, likely due to some form of sanction against us. However, those worries were now a thing of the past.

Luis arranged the table, and it triggered memories of Emily setting the table, eagerly awaiting Jake's return. The food often grew cold as she called us to join her. Eventually, her home became the gathering place for all of us.

Jake turned out to be a real disappointment. His excuses were flimsy, and at first, we suspected he might be having an affair. However, we later learned that his true motivations were driven by money and power. He