NATALIE'S HOME

Bethany and Fred rushed to Natalie’s house, fear gripping them—mostly Bethany.

“Natalie... I’m coming!” she yelled, breathless.

But as they reached the entrance, they saw Natalie sitting on the floor, casually smoking a cigarette.

Relief washed over Bethany, but confusion quickly followed. Wasn’t this the same Natalie who had screamed on the phone just moments ago, saying, “I need you now! Get here fast or I might die!”

Bethany wore an exhausted frown and slowly walked toward her. “I thought you said you were going to die?”

Natalie didn’t respond, her gaze fixed on the cigarette between her fingers.

“Nat!” Bethany’s voice was sharp now, frustration creeping in....