A.L.E.N - Between Shadows (Chapter 2)

Act 21

The following morning, Liam and Cathleen are driving to Walfield, a small, historic, and forested town, surrounded by towering trees and dotted with quaint buildings. The narrow, winding roads lead them through dense forests, and the air is crisp and fresh, hinting at the promise of an adventurous getaway.

As they navigate through the scenic landscape, Liam's mother, Ellen, calls. Liam answers cheerfully, "Hey Mom, how are you?"

Ellen's voice crackles through the car's speakers. "I'm doing alright, son. Busy with work, but it's fine. Your sister Alice came by and asked how things were going between you and Cathleen. I told her everything was fine and that you two were on a trip to Walfield."

Cathleen looks surprised, her eyebrows raising slightly. Liam laughs and asks, "And how did she react to that?"

"Well," Ellen replies, "she was surprised to hear that you were going there after all that happened. You know."

Liam's expression becomes thoughtful as he recalls the event. "Yeah, I remember that," he says softly. "Well, it's all Cathleen's idea; she convinced me to go so she can see her sister, and her father actually works there as a teacher. I convinced my boss to let me write about the town."

"Ah, I see," Ellen responds. "Well then, good luck to you both. And by the way, Liam, if you see Robert and Julie, tell them I said 'hi.'"

"Of course," Liam assures her. "I'll talk to you later and keep you updated when we arrive."

Ellen's tone softens. "Alright then. Drive carefully."

Cathleen chimes in, "I'll watch out for him, Mrs. Janson; don't worry."

Liam grins at Cathleen's reassuring words. Ellen adds warmly, "Thanks, Cathleen; I really appreciate it. He is lucky to have you."

Cathleen smiles, and Ellen concludes, "Well, you two have fun. Safe trip."

Both Cathleen and Liam reply in unison, "We will! Bye." Ellen hangs up after saying her goodbyes.

Liam glances at Cathleen and notices her beaming smile. "What?" he asks, intrigued. "How come you're grinning so much?"

"I'm just glad you agreed to come with me," Cathleen responds, her eyes twinkling with excitement.

Liam nods, feeling a bit more relaxed. "Yeah," he says softly, "me too."

As they drive further, Cathleen asks to confirm something, "So, Liam? Are we going to stay in a historical cabin?"

Liam nods. "Yes," he replies, though his tone lacks enthusiasm. "The same old cabin where my mother and I stayed and had that crazy experience..."

Sensing his unease, Cathleen tries to lift his spirits. She playfully punches him on the shoulder and says, "Come on, cheer up! Let's leave the past behind and have some enjoyable moments there. We're going to see our family and relatives, and we'll have fun together."

Liam smiles at her effort. "You're right, Cat. Let's just have some enjoyable moments when we get there."

As they approach Walfield, an old sign by the side of the road reads, "Welcome to Walfield. Have a wonderful time here." Cathleen points it out with excitement. "We're almost there," she says.

Liam tries to focus on the present and enjoy the trip, though a part of him is still apprehensive. Despite the scenic drive and the prospect of family reunions, he can't fully shake off his lingering worries.

Meanwhile, at the cabin, something unexpected happens. A shadowy hooded figure, all covered in black clothes, approaches the back door of the kitchen. With determined force, it manages to pry it open and slips inside, its heavy boots echoing against the old wooden floorboards. it moves with a sense of purpose, searching for something as it methodically checks each room. It presence is ominous, and it heads upstairs, continuing its search.

Unbeknownst to Liam and Cathleen, they have an uninvited stranger in their cabin, lurking and rummaging through their temporary home.