Chapter Thirty Nine

*Ashley’s POV*

The sun dipped below the horizon, casting a golden glow across the landscape. The air was filled with a gentle breeze, carrying the scent of freshly bloomed flowers. It was the kind of evening that whispered promises of new beginnings and whispered secrets from the past.

I looked over at Matt, my long-time partner, and love. His warm smile reached my eyes, assuring me that he understood my need for solitude. He squeezed my hand gently, a silent reassurance that he would be waiting for me when I am ready. With a soft nod, I stepped away from the pack, my footsteps leading me toward the quiet embrace of nature.

The path wound through a dense forest, dappled sunlight filtering through the canopy above. The earth beneath my feet felt cool and solid, grounding me as I ventured deeper into the woods. Each step brought me closer to my destination, but also closer to the memories I had buried deep within.

As I walked, I could hear the distant rush of the stream, a soothing melo