Chapter 47. An Old Face

Griffin’s POV

Ethan continued to chatter about his favourite things in the city, what he missed, and how much he couldn’t wait to be back there. His voice was like a sweet melody that clashed against the force swirling in my mind.

“Griffin, do you think mummy will be at the park?” he asked excitedly. The bus bumped over a large pothole, sending Ethan lurching against me. I caught him and wrapped my arm around his shoulder, comfort that felt like a flimsy shield against the uncertainties that loomed ahead.

“Are you OK?” I asked with genuine concern.

“Yeah, just a little bumpy,” he said, giggling, unaffected by the fear that settled in my mind like an unwelcome guest. I looked around the bus, taking in the surroundings while the other passengers were lost in their worlds. A world that was seemingly different from the one I found myself trapped in.

Ethan was so excited. I knew he was expecting to see his mum when we got into the city, but I knew she