Chapter 14 - Ally or Enemy?

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The next evening, Eli met up with his friend John at a bar, hoping to vent his frustrations. As they chatted over drinks, John began to share stories about his recent encounters in the city, casually mentioning Athena. "You know, I saw Athena the other day. She was with some sketchy characters," John said, his tone light but his words struck like a thunderclap.

"Sketchy characters? What do you mean?" Eli's heart raced, a sense of dread pooling in his stomach.

"Just some guys who looked like they were up to no good. I thought maybe she was just being friendly, but it didn't sit right with me," John replied, oblivious to the turmoil brewing inside Eli. "You should be careful, man. People have a way of showing their true colors."

Eli felt a wave of anger and betrayal wash over him. How could Athena be involved with people like that? He had already sensed that she was keeping secrets, and now it felt like a confirmation of his worst fears. The idea that the woman he cared for could be slipping back into a dangerous life ignited a fire within him. "I need to talk to her," he said, his voice tense.

As Eli left the bar, his mind raced with questions. He felt torn between the love he had for Athena and the distrust that was beginning to fester. He couldn't help but wonder if he had been naïve, blinded by his feelings. The thought of confronting her filled him with dread, but he knew he couldn't ignore the signs any longer.

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