chapter nine: Whispers in the Shadows

Mary's pov.

Throughout the night, I couldn't find any peace as I kept dreaming about Johnson still being alive. As daylight started to seep in through my window curtains, a sudden knock on my door broke me out of my restless slumber. When I answered it, Jane was standing before me with her condolences at the ready.

I gave Jane a chilly welcome when she greeted me "Goodmorning"; my lack of response communicated unsaid thoughts. Despite expressing her condolences for Johnson's situation, I knew her words held little meaning since she had neglected to help him earlier on.

As I approached Jane, a heavy atmosphere of tension and hostility filled the air. Specifically, I called her out for failing to promptly offer aid when she became aware of Johnson's predicament.

Jane offered a genuine apology and expressed regret for not taking action earlier, however, I remained doubtful and skeptical about the sincerity of her feelings.

When I confronted Jane about toying with my emotions, she dropped