CHAPTER 64: seed of doubt and confusion

　　John stepped out of the car, his movements slow and deliberate. The warm morning sun felt distant to him as if its rays couldn't penetrate the weight pressing on his chest. Isabelle's pale face from earlier flashed in his mind, her weak voice asking him not to worry. He felt guilty leaving her behind, sick and alone.

　　Rachel stood close to him, her eyes narrowing as she studied his posture. Something about John seemed off and more tense than usual. She brushed a strand of hair behind her ear with a small smirk playing on her lips.

　　"John, You look… troubled. What's wrong?" Rachel murmured, stepping closer so her voice barely rose above the ambient noise of the city.

　　John sighed, his brows furrowing. "I shouldn't have left Isabelle alone. She's not well, and I just feel like I should be there, you know? It didn't feel right."

　　Rachel tilted her head, her smirk growing into a knowing smile.