Chapter 6: Nowhere to Hide

The next day, just as the sky was beginning to lighten,

A faint orange glow crept over the city, painting everything in soft pastels. My suitcase sat by the door, packed and ready.

I stepped out of my apartment, suitcase in hand.

The hallway was silent except for the distant hum of a neighbor’s TV. I moved quietly, every footstep echoing too loudly in my ears.

I hadn’t slept well, afraid someone might break in and kill me in my sleep.

Every creak, every distant siren, made me jump. I’d wedged a chair under the doorknob, checked the locks twice, but it didn’t help. My nerves were shot.

After locking the door, I took one last look at the place I’d lived for years, then turned and left.

My apartment looked smaller than ever—just a box filled with memories and regrets. I closed the door softly behind me, heart pounding.

As I left my floor, I was extra cautious, checking my surroundings. After confirming there was no danger, I hurried away.

I kept my head down, eyes scanning for anyone lurking in the shadows. The elevator ride felt endless.

But after just a few steps, a cold, beautiful voice sounded from behind me:

"Are you trying to run away?"

Her voice was sharper than I’d imagined, cool as lake water in November, and it froze me in place. I turned, heart hammering, and saw Natalie standing there—closer than I’d ever dared to dream, her eyes fixed on mine, as if she’d known all along. Her lips curled in a smile that didn’t reach her eyes. The suitcase felt like an anchor in my hand. Suddenly, I wasn’t sure if I was the hunter or the prey.