Giving up

Elena's POV:

As the sun began to dip below the horizon, casting warm orange and pink hues across the sky, I started making my way back home. The walk had done wonders for clearing my mind, but as I approached the house, a sound caught my attention.

It was faint at first—soft noises coming from a playground I hadn't noticed before. My footsteps slowed as I turned toward the source, curiosity getting the better of me. The sounds were coming from behind the slide, muffled but unmistakable.

My first thought was kids—maybe someone was hurt or in trouble. These days, you couldn't trust anyone, and the idea of a child needing help made my heart race. Without hesitation, I quickened my pace toward the playground, determined to make sure everything was okay.

But as I got closer, the noises grew louder, more distinct… and then it hit me. These weren't cries for help. They were moans.