Chapter 80

** Shadows and Revelations**

Athena couldn't shake the feeling that had lingered after her encounter with the mysterious man. His words, his gaze, and the gentle familiarity in his voice stayed with her, haunting her thoughts. Each time she closed her eyes, she saw his face, heard his soft voice, and felt a warmth she couldn't explain.

After work that evening, Athena left the mall and started down the bustling city streets, her mind replaying their conversation. He'd seemed so familiar, yet she knew they'd never met. She reached up to touch the ring hanging around her neck, finding a small comfort in the cool metal against her skin. How did he know things that felt so true, yet seemed so impossible?

Her thoughts were interrupted by the feeling of being watched. She glanced over her shoulder, and for a moment, she thought she saw a shadow dart across the street. Dismissing it as her imagination, she kept walking, but the feeling persisted, tugging at her nerves.