Flora’s Guide to a Second Chance at Love and Life

Leaving Jackson's place, Fiona couldn't shake the feeling that something was off. She always had a knack for picking up on changes around her, and today was no different. Trying to push away the unease, she quickly glanced around and ducked into a nearby alley. The sky was a dull gray, and the alley was cluttered with random construction debris, making it tricky to navigate. Fiona moved forward quietly, but the sudden clatter of hurried footsteps behind her made her freeze. It wasn't just one person-it sounded like a whole group, and they were closing in fast. Spinning around, Fiona found herself face-to-face with a gang of burly, tattooed men. The leader stood out with a thick metal pipe in his hand and a nasty scar slicing across his face. He grinned, showing off his yellow teeth, and taunted, "Well, well, look who's waltzed right into our little trap. Don't blame us if things get rough, sweetheart."

Feigning fear, Fiona widened her almond-shaped eyes, letting them fill with mock terror. Her voice, dripping with sugar, sounded so forced it gave her chills. "Who are you? Why are you following me?"

The men burst into laughter as if she'd told the funniest joke. "You don't need to know who we are. Just do what you're told, and maybe we won't have to get nasty," the leader sneered, licking his lips and stepping closer.

The group ogled her like wolves eyeing fresh prey, their gazes disgusting and hungry, practically drooling.

...

Back at school, Fiona's friends were getting worried. With only a minute until class started, her absence was glaring. Calls and texts went unanswered, sending her close friends into a panic.

"What do we do if we can't reach Fiona?" a boy who usually stuck by Fiona asked, unable to sit still.

Nearby, students whispered ideas, their brows knitted in concern. "Maybe we should tell a teacher; they might know how to find her."

"But what if it's nothing? If she's just skipping class, telling a teacher could get her in trouble."

"That won't work, and neither will this! What's the plan, then?" The debate was heating up.

Just then, the room fell silent as Nash walked in. He ignored the curious stares and headed straight for Fiona's empty seat. His brow furrowed. "Where is she?"

A boy quickly explained, "The boss has been missing for a while. We've tried calling and texting, but nothing."

Nash pulled out his phone and

dialed Fiona's number.

Unsurprisingly, it went straight

voicemail, the cold automated voice only adding to his unease.

"When was the last time anyone heard from her?" he asked.

"Just before lunch. Since then, nothing."

Nash appeared to be messaging someone when he heard a muttered, "Hope the boss isn't in any trouble..."

He slammed his phone down, snapping, "Enough with the guessing."noveldrama

Despite his frustration, Nash paused

to think and then decided to ring up Mr. Jackson. "Hey, do you know where Fiona is? She didn't make it to school this afternoon."