Abandoned Tracks

Chapter Four: A Step into the Unknown

As they walked through the forest, Alex couldn't help but observe Ethan more closely. Alex himself was 23, with an athletic build honed from regular jogging and outdoor activities. His sandy brown hair was cropped short, and his blue eyes always held a hint of curiosity. He dressed simply in jeans and a t-shirt, favoring practicality over fashion.

In contrast, Ethan's appearance was like something out of a history book. At 28, he had a rugged yet refined look, with dark hair that fell in soft waves just above his collar. His green eyes were intense, reflecting a lifetime of experiences that belied his youthful appearance. Despite his 1970s attire, there was an undeniable charm to his style—a kind of effortless cool that stood out against Alex's modern simplicity.

"So, Ethan," Alex began as they navigated the winding path back to the cottage, "how old are you exactly?"

"I'm 28," Ethan replied, glancing around at the unfamiliar surroundings. "Or at least, I was when I boarded that train. Now... I'm not so sure."

"Do you have any family?" Alex asked, trying to piece together Ethan's story.

Ethan's expression grew wistful. "I have a mother, a father, an elder brother, and a younger sister. We were quite well-off. My father ran a successful business, and my mother took care of the household. My brother, James, was always the responsible one, set to take over the family business. My sister, Emily, was just starting college."

Alex tried to imagine what it must have been like for Ethan, being torn from a life that seemed so perfect. "Where are you from?" he continued, genuinely interested.

"Charleston, South Carolina," Ethan said, a hint of nostalgia in his voice. "It was a beautiful place, full of history and charm. I wonder how much it's changed."

As they emerged from the forest, they passed Mrs. Thompson's garden. She looked up and waved, but her smile faltered as she saw Alex seemingly talking to himself.

"Good morning, Mrs. Thompson," Alex called out, forcing a cheerful tone.

"Good morning, Alex," she replied, her eyes narrowing slightly. "Are you... feeling alright?"

Alex glanced at Ethan, who seemed to understand the situation. He gave Alex a slight nod, indicating he would stay silent.

"Just talking to myself," Alex said with an awkward laugh. "Thinking out loud, you know?"

Mrs. Thompson's frown deepened, but she nodded slowly. "Alright then. Take care, dear."

As they continued towards the cottage, Ethan spoke up. "She couldn't see me, could she?"

Alex shook his head. "No. I think there's more to this than we realize. It's strange that I can see you, but no one else can."

Ethan looked thoughtful. "Why do you think that is?"

"I don't know," Alex admitted. "Maybe there's something about you, or maybe there's something about me. It feels like... we were meant to meet."

Ethan nodded slowly. "I feel the same way. It's like there's a connection between us that I can't explain."

When they reached the cottage, Alex opened the door and led Ethan inside. "Welcome to my humble abode," he said with a smile. "It's not much, but it's home."

Ethan looked around, taking in the cozy living room with its simple furniture and warm decor. "It's nice," he said. "Thank you for bringing me here."

Alex nodded and gestured for Ethan to follow him. "Let me give you a tour. This is the living room, obviously. Over here is the kitchen—help yourself to anything you need. And this is the bathroom. I'll grab you some clothes to change into."

He rummaged through his dresser and found a pair of sweatpants and a t-shirt. "These might be a bit big, but they should be more comfortable than what you're wearing."

Ethan took the clothes with a grateful smile. "Thank you, Alex. I appreciate it."

While Ethan changed, Alex prepared a simple dinner. They ate in companionable silence, both lost in their thoughts. As night fell, Alex set up a makeshift bed for Ethan on the floor beside his own.

"Sorry it's not more comfortable," Alex said, feeling a bit guilty.

"It's fine," Ethan assured him. "It's better than the train."

As they settled in for the night, Alex lay on his bed, staring at the ceiling. "So, what do you think we should do tomorrow?"

Ethan turned to look at him, his expression thoughtful. "We need to figure out why I'm still here and why no one else can see me. There has to be a reason."

Alex nodded. "Agreed. We'll start by looking for any clues in the cave. Maybe there's something we missed."

"Sounds like a plan," Ethan said, a hint of determination in his voice. "And Alex... thank you. For everything."

"You're welcome, Ethan," Alex replied softly. "We'll get through this together."

As they drifted off to sleep, the room was filled with a sense of shared purpose and a budding friendship, both of them eager to face the mysteries that lay ahead.