Chapter 30. Stalker

Xerina’s POV

I smiled as he said something I couldn’t quite catch, but the way he was so enthusiastic about stars and planets and astronomy made me laugh. He swayed his hands, explaining how the cosmos worked and that there could be a chance that parallel worlds existed. His passion was contagious, and I felt a warm glow inside just watching him.

“…and when the light travels, it’s faster than anything…” His words faded when I sensed a presence. A chill ran down my spine as I snapped my head around, my heart pounding. Dylan stopped, looking at me with a frown, concern, etching his features.

“Xerina?”

“Did you hear it? The voices.”

“What? There is no one but us. This place is isolated from the town; no one comes here.”

“…Right…” I said, trying to hide my unease. “Stay here, I’ll be… back.”

“Xerina…”

“I just… need to use the washroom. I’ll be back.” My voice wavered slightly, betraying my growing anxiety.

I turned the corner,