The Bookstore

(6) Tunnels

Tyler

We're hiding in a cramped, dusty space, which is pleasant because I feel like dying right now. Who the hell could find this adventurous and fun? If I had my skateboard here, I would get out of this stupid corner and hit them in the face with it. Skateboards make magic.

I look at them, they're dead silent, which is a bit amusing seeing their serious faces. I can notice there's obviously a joker here, because he keeps trying to hols his laugh while he looks at Lily, who is staring dead in his eyes, probably telling him she's going to kill him the second we get out of here with just her gaze.

I can still hear the faint echo of footsteps and murmured voices growing louder. We started overhearing another conversation.

"We need to secure the documents and move the equipment before anyone finds out."

"The mayor's instructions were clear. No one can know what we're doing here." We realized these individuals were involved in the secrets experiments and possibly connected to the mayor.

The voices got closer and we needed to make a quick decision to avoid being discovered. I made them a signal and we quietly made out way towards the window we entered through. And, of course, I was leading the way and helping everyone out like the great leader I am.

Jack

We managed to get out just in time. Not to mention I nearly slipped, but Lily caught me, she reluctantly helped me. Everyone could've helped me, but she did! Well, it was obvious she caught me instead of anyone else because I'm hanging on to her like a leech.

We al, started running, the tension and urgency of the escape was palpable in the air, our breathing was heavy and our hearts pumped fast as we made it to safety.

We headed to the café to discuss what just happened.

"We need to figure out who those people were and what their connection to the mayor is." Sophie said, and Anna quickly answered her.

"I have a feeling it's bigger than just hidden treasures. There might be something more sinister at play." We all nodded in agreement, but soon we fell silent again before starting to brainstorm possible next steps, including researching more about the lighthouse and the town's history.

At the end of our little research, we decided to visit the library again to look for more clues. And, of course, Mrs. Green was there to assist us. We found old newspaper articles about the town's founding families and references to secret societies, again. Everything seemed to be connected.

She mentioned that years ago. there were rumors of a secret society that controlled the town behind the scenes. She also told us about an old map that shows underground tunnels connecting key locations in the town, including the lighthouse and the library.

We realized these tunnels could be crucial in our investigation. I looked at them while we were still at the library and spoke up.

"We need to find those tunnels. They could lead us to the truth."

"Fine. But no more impulsive moves, we need to be careful." Lily says, reluctantly agreeing. I bet she's starting to trust me more.

We used the map to locate a potential entrance to the tunnels beneath the old library we are in. We found a hidden door in the basement of the library that leads to the underground tunnels. They suddenly pulled out flashlights from their bags. Great, i'm the only one here completely unnequiped.

We entered the tunnels. God, this is gross. As we moved deeper into the tunnels, we heard voices echoing from up ahead. We quickly realized we weren't alone, again, and might be close to discovering a significant part of the mistery.

We made ourway to an alcove in the tunnel, to hide as we saw shadows approaching.

I was sitting next to Anna, glued to her because this tiny space didn't give us any more space. I looked at her and saw that Lily was sitting next to her, looking slightly down. That was it, this is my heroic moment.

I leaned closer to Anna's ear and whispered to her, quietly. "Hey... could you let me where you're sitting for a moment, pretty please?" She just nods and makes her way to my place, letting hers empty for me.

I looked down at Lily. She was looking at the ground, expressionless. I whispered to her, and she looked up at me.

"Are you all right, Lily? You look a bit down."

"Oh... Nothing to worry about, i'm just a bit tired." She answers in a low voice. I obviously wanted to grab her and cuddle her close to my chest, but we didn't get to that part. Yet. Do you want to know what was the most embarrasing moment in my life? This one.

I placed my hand in her leg softly and slowly, looking at her face to see her reaction. God, she gave me the biggest and most dangerous side eye i've ever seen. I quickly pulled my own hand off of her leg and looked away, wanting the Earth to eat me whole. When i looked at the others, expecting them to didn't notice, well, i was completely wrong. They were staring at me, holding their laughs and shaking their heads. Great.

We ended up preparing quietly to confront whoever is in the tunnel, the tension was high as we braced for the unknown.