The moon hung high in the sky, casting its silver glow over the secluded forest. Dianne stood at the edge of a small clearing, her eyes fixed on the horizon. The nocturnal sounds of rustling leaves and distant animal calls were amplified by her heightened senses, each noise a reminder of the inner turmoil she couldn't escape.
Lewis stood a few paces behind her, his presence a silent reassurance. He watched her, his eyes filled with concern and love. Dianne had always been strong, a force to be reckoned with. But tonight, as she faced the prospect of returning to those who had betrayed her, she seemed vulnerable in a way he rarely saw.
"I don't know if I can face them again, Lewis," Dianne finally said, her voice barely above a whisper. "They tore me apart, left me for dead. Why should I trust them now?"
