章 209: A Haunting Past 2

John knew the man as an associate of Charles, his mentor. He would arrive during his training with Charles and stay to talk or even have dinner. John knew him as Clifford, but that was all he knew, other than being Charles' associate.

He saw Clifford approach little Julia with a smile. "Hi there, sweetie. What are you doing out here by yourself?"

Julia's eyes widened in surprise and fear, and she quickly tried to stand up. But before she could escape, Clifford grabbed her arm and forced her back onto the swing.

"I asked you a question, girl. You'd best answer me," he demanded.

Julia's small voice trembled as she spoke, "I was just... playing."

Clifford's hand tightened around her arm. "Playing on your own? Aren't you afraid of the shadows?"

John felt a shiver course through his body as he witnessed the unfolding scene. Every fibre of his being wanted to intervene and rescue Julia, but an unknown force kept him rooted in place.