“Why does the walk home feel quieter than usual…” Vania muttered, quickening her pace. The streetlights were on, but the shadows of the trees made parts of the sidewalk look unnervingly dark.

She had just left the city park, still replaying the laughter she’d shared with Arga that afternoon, when that strange sensation crept in—a feeling that someone was following her.

Her footsteps echoed alone, but… no. There was another set of steps, half a beat behind hers.

Vania glanced back sharply. The street looked empty, but in the distance, a tall figure in a dark jacket moved slowly, always keeping the same distance.

Don’t panic, Van… she told herself....