Chapter 122

ARNOLD

Ethan nods, his expression serious.

“There might be someone nearby who saw something. We have to try. This is just a clearing, but I can see activity up ahead.”

I consider his words for a moment, weighing the risks and rewards. It's a long shot, but at this point, we're running out of options. We have to try anything and everything if we want to find Hazel.

“Alright.” I say finally, my voice heavy with resignation. “Let's ask around.”

We leave the clearing behind, our footsteps echoing through the darkness as we make our way deeper into the forest. The air is thick with tension, our senses on high alert as we search for any sign of someone who might be willing, as people immediately turn around when we call to them.

It makes no sense, because we are dressed the way they are, yet, they’re ostracizing us.

“Do you think anyone will talk to us?” Ethan asks, his voice barely above a whisper.

I shrug, my mind racing with possibilities.

“I don't know. But we have to