Chapter eighteen

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Morning light filtered through the thin curtains, casting a soft glow over the room. I woke feeling more exhausted than ever, but the sense of urgency drove me to get up. Five was already awake, sitting at the edge of the bed, his gaze distant but attentive.

"Good morning," I mumbled, rubbing my eyes. "We should get ready. We need to head out soon."

Five looked at me, his expression still guarded but with a hint of something softer. "Yeah. We'll need to get a move on. Diego's already up and getting the van ready."

I nodded, feeling a mix of gratitude and frustration. Despite his usual cold demeanor, Five's presence was oddly comforting. I got dressed quickly in a comfortable outfit: a black hoodie, faded jeans, and sturdy boots. My hair was still in its messy ponytail from last night, and I barely had the energy to fix it.

Downstairs, the rest of the team was gathered, a mix of curiosity and concern on their faces. Five and I walked into the room where they were waiting. Diego was already at the van, checking the supplies. Viktor and Allison were chatting quietly, their faces showing a mix of anxiety and determination.

"Morning, everyone," I said, trying to sound upbeat despite my lingering fatigue. "We have a plan. We're going to the address my mom gave us. We need to find out more about my powers and whatever's haunting me."

Diego looked up, giving me a nod. "Got it. I'll make sure the van's ready for the long drive."

Five addressed the group, his voice still carrying its usual edge. "We don't know what we're walking into. Be prepared for anything."

Allison stepped forward, her expression thoughtful. "Do you have any idea what you're looking for?"

I shook my head. "Not really. I just know that whatever's haunting me is linked to my powers. I need answers."

Viktor glanced at me, his concern evident. "We'll help you find those answers."

The group quickly gathered their gear, the atmosphere charged with a mix of tension and determination. Five and Diego led the way as we made our way to the van, preparing for the journey ahead. I could feel Five's eyes on me occasionally, his gaze a blend of concern and reserved support.

As we settled into the van and began the long drive, the road stretched out before us, a metaphor for the uncertainty that lay ahead. Five sat next to me, his silence a stark contrast to the chatter of the others. I could sense the tension between us, a complicated mix of feelings that neither of us fully understood or wanted to address.

We were finally on our way, each mile taking us closer to the unknown. The journey would be long, but the promise of answers kept us moving forward. I glanced at Five, whose gaze was fixed on the road, his expression unreadable.

"Thanks for coming with me," I said quietly, breaking the silence.

Five's response was brief, but his tone was slightly softer than usual. "Just don't expect me to make this easy for you."

I managed a small, tired smile. "I wouldn't dream of it."

As the van rolled down the highway, the horizon seemed to blur into a distant promise of answers and resolution. The road ahead was uncertain, but with Five and the others by my side, I felt a small spark of hope amidst the fear and confusion.

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