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Shadows of the Past (chapt.8)

Author: Stone
last update Last Updated: 2025-06-24 22:55:25

Alessia's POV

"How did you get this?" I breathed, the picture still trembling between my fingers.

Sophia did not react right away. Her eyes flashed to the side, and I could feel her jaw locked. Something crossed her face—hesitation, even guilt. But it wasn't so much the photograph that haunted me. It was what it stood for. Him. Alive. Breathing. Real. That ghost I'd buried under a world of anger, loss, and shattered dreams.

"Soph," I barked, my voice tighter this time. "Where did you find this?

She regarded me, something enigmatic coursing through her eyes. "It's easier if I show you rather than tell."

The manner in which she said it sent a shiver through me. As if she knew already what it would do to me. As if she knew that when I saw what she had to share, I would not come back the same. And for a moment, I was going to say no. To keep the door closed. But curiosity—it's a cruel mistress. It winds around your neck until you're gagging on the truth.

Before I could dial her again, my
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