Susan sat in the corner of the camp, her face etched with sadness as she watched her daughter Trish play. Trish, full of youthful energy, darted around, unaware of her mother's heavy heart. Susan's eyes never strayed far from Trish, a silent guardian ensuring her safety in the midst of her own turmoil. Her thoughts were consumed by Daniel, her unwavering belief in his survival battling against the gnawing fear of his loss.
"Where are you, Daniel? You're alright, I know it," Susan whispered to herself, her words a desperate mantra against the encroaching doubt.
Her phone pierced the heavy air with its ringtone, shattering the silence of the camp. Susan's hand darted to grab it, her heart racing with anticipation. With a trembling hand, she answered, her voice betraying a mix of hope and apprehension.
"Hello," she uttered, the word a lifeline in the uncertainty.
