I froze slightly at the sudden voice of Nancy I had just heard. I didn't hear any approaching footsteps, nor did I catch a trace of a shadow or figure when I arrived at the forest, so I didn't expect Nancy or anyone else to show up without my knowledge.

I lowered my head and quickly wiped away the tears with my right hand before prying away Nancy's hands, which hugged me from behind. I turned to Nancy after inhaling deeply to calm my emotions and then feigned a calm smile. "Thank you."

Upon seeing my face, Nancy's eyes widened, and her lips parted in a gasp. She eyed me...