Chapter 42

"Why would he?" A nagging voice in my mind incessantly questioned, as if taunting me. I longed to silence it once and for all, as it gnawed at my peace of mind. My appetite had vanished, and in my growing unease, I decided to reach out to Cassandra for answers. However, to my astonishment, my call was disconnected abruptly. Why would she do that?

My concern heightened as I wondered what could have kept them so preoccupied. I dialed Alex's number in a desperate attempt to get in touch, but there was no response. It had been over half an hour since they had left for the Lake, and they hadn't returned yet. Worrisome thoughts raced through my head, and I felt a sense of urgency to investigate. What if they were in danger? I chided my inner voice for its paranoid speculations.

Without a moment's hesitation, I rushed to my car and sped towards their last known location. Disregarding the speed limit, I drove recklessly, consumed by worry, until I reached the familiar clearing. As I hastily ma