CHAPTER 14 A Fragile Normalcy

  The morning sun filtered through the curtains of Angela's room, casting warm, golden rays over the floor as she slowly blinked her eyes open. For the first time in days, she felt a sense of calm. The events of the previous night lingered in her mind, the strange encounter, the letter, but today, she was determined to push it all aside, at least for a little while.

  Angela stretched lazily in bed, letting the soft warmth of the sun coax her into wakefulness. The world outside seemed peaceful, untouched by the chaos swirling around her life. Birds chirped cheerily, and a soft breeze rustled the leaves of the large oak tree outside her window. It was one of those rare moments where everything felt normal.

  Her phone buzzed on the nightstand, drawing her out of her reverie. She reached for it, half expecting another cryptic message, but it was just a text from Julie.