Chapter 272

Carter's POV 

We can't help but suspect that Julie might have something to do with Carla's disappearance.

One evening, as Cara and I are going through Carla's belongings, we stumble upon an old journal. Flipping through its pages, we discover a series of cryptic entries, filled with cryptic symbols and coded messages.

"Look at this," Cara says, pointing at a particularly intriguing page. "These symbols... I've seen them before."

"Remember that old bookstore Carla used to frequent? The one with all those strange books and artifacts? Maybe they can help us decipher this." My heart races as a realization hits me. 

Without wasting a moment, we grab our coats and head out, our determination fueling our steps. We arrive at the bookstore, its shelves lined with dusty tomes and mysterious artifacts. A small bell tinkles as we enter, drawing the attention of an elderly man behind the counter.

"Welcome," he says, his voice crackli