章 68: Shadows and Secrets

"Why does it feel like he's still here?" Sarah whispered, looking over her shoulder as she and Max continued through the dense, silent forest. Her words caught in the cool air, hanging heavy between them. It wasn't just the fear of shadows that made her heart race—it was something else, a feeling that someone was watching them.

Max paused, his hand tightening around hers. "Who's still here, Sarah?" His gaze softened as he tried to catch her eyes.

She took a shaky breath. "Alex... Sometimes, I feel like I can hear him. Like he's just... somewhere near, watching. It's like his presence hasn't faded, you know?"

Max's jaw clenched slightly. "Sarah, Alex… he's gone," he said softly, the words firm but kind. "I know you loved him. And maybe a part of him will always be with you. But whatever is keeping you looking back, it's not him. Not anymore."