Madelyn was near Ventrocloud High. She had not been outside for days, so her mood brightened as she watched the bustling street. Without a phone, she realized she had no one to worry about or to contact, making her world exceptionally quiet.

Unconsciously, Madelyn walked into a familiar alley, the same one Forrest had taken her for a meal before. She had no idea why she had come here. As Madelyn was about to leave, a woman in her forties or fifties walked out carrying a basin with water. Upon s