Chapter 20

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Three years have passed since Amy first stepped into Angelina's life, a time marked by both growth and the weight of unspoken fears. Now, at the tender age of 12, Amy embodies the essence of childhood innocence, her laughter ringing like a melody through the halls of their modest home. She spends her days lost in the world of books, her imagination painting vibrant landscapes that contrast sharply with the shadows lurking just beyond their doorstep.

Angelina, fiercely protective and ever-vigilant, has dedicated herself to creating a sanctuary for Amy. She has transformed their home into a fortress of love and safety, filling it with warmth and laughter, all while keeping the specter of danger at bay. Every decision she makes is laced with the desire to shield Amy from the harsh realities of the world outside. She has woven a tapestry of routines and rituals, ensuring that their lives are filled with joy, even as her heart remains heavy with the burden of anxiety.

Richard, the ghost of a man who once held a significant place in their lives, has been silent for far too long. His last letter, a chilling reminder of his presence, has left Angelina in a state of perpetual unease. Each day, she scans the horizon, half-expecting him to emerge from the shadows, his intentions as murky as the clouds that sometimes gather overhead. The silence is deafening, a constant reminder that danger can lurk in the most unexpected places. Angelina's mind races with possibilities, each one more terrifying than the last, as she grapples with the uncertainty of what Richard might do next.

Unbeknownst to Angelina, the three years of silence have not dulled Richard's resolve; rather, they have sharpened it.

He has been taking his time, watching from afar, waiting for the perfect moment to strike. His patience is like a predator's and he has perfectly plotted his return. As he prepares to re-enter their lives, the tension in the air thickens, a storm brewing just out of sight.

The days pass, each one a delicate balance between normalcy and the impending threat that looms over them. Angelina remains blissfully unaware of the storm gathering on the horizon, her focus solely on nurturing Amy's spirit and shielding her from the darkness that once threatened to engulf them.

But she knew he was coming for Amy and he had a plan with that could not fail.

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