Inside the deserted structure, the air was heavy with dust, and the disintegrating walls had a slight mildew odor. Lily held the leather-bound notebook tightly to her bosom, feeling as though the weight of its contents was a physical burden. Too scared of the truths it could hold, she hadn't ventured to open it yet. But she knew in her heart that she couldn't stay away from it much longer.
She turned to depart, walking toward the exit with her heels resonating against the shattered floor. However, Ethan's voice interrupted her before she could get to the door.
"Lily..."
Her breath caught as she froze. She slowly turned to look at him, her face displaying a mix of fatigue and reserved interest. His face was partially lit by the dim light coming in through the broken windows as he stood in the shadows.
With a hint of annoyance in her voice, she questioned, "What is it now?"
