Chapter 70. Open Secret

ISABEL

After the flight had landed, the passengers made their way toward the baggage claim area to retrieve their belongings.

Amidst the commotion of the crowd, I was looking out for Jackson or his resemblance. Despite my efforts to locate him, he was nowhere to be found and I began to feel I had misidentified him in the first place.

Perhaps, in the flurry of activity and excitement of the journey, my mind had played tricks on me, conjuring up the impression of Jackson in the crowd. I found myself wrestling with doubt, and wondering whether I had simply mistaken another traveler for Jackson.

Retrieving my luggage, I exited the terminal, determined to find temporary accommodation while I sought a permanent residence.

The reality of navigating this unfamiliar city alone sank in as I surveyed the surroundings of the airport, fully aware that securing lodgings and eventually an apartment would require careful planning. With the heavy baggage with me, I set