SERA
Scarlet gave me a puzzled look, but she didn't question my sudden arrival. She scooted over slightly on the fountain's edge, making space for me to sit. I took the seat, my eyes briefly scanning the courtyard for any sign of the figure I'd seen. Nothing. It was as if they'd never been there.
"You're acting strange," Scarlet said, breaking the silence.
"Am I?" I replied, forcing a chuckle. "Maybe I just wanted to make sure you weren't avoiding me."
She raised an eyebrow, a small smile tugging at her lips. "I don't avoid people. If anything, it's the other way around."
I nodded, relieved to see her smile. But my thoughts were still on the shadowy figure. I decided to play it carefully.
"Have you noticed anything weird lately?" I asked, keeping my tone light.
Scarlet tilted her head, her fingers tracing the edge of the fountain. "Weird how?"
"I don't know... people acting strange? Maybe feeling like someone's watching you?"