Chapter 1
On what started as a splendid day, a letter from Freya's mother brought an unexpected twist. "Freya, I need to see you. I need to see your siblings' faces. I'm sorry for leaving you all with your father, but I was helpless. Please forgive me and let us reunite." As Freya read those words, tears welled up in her eyes, and memories of the day her mother departed came rushing back. At 22, she felt compelled to consider reconnecting.
Determined, Freya decided to plan a picnic for the upcoming Sunday to visit her mother. Sharing her plan with her best friend Cora, Cora asked, "Freya, are you sure about this?"
"Yes, I am. I've always longed for a happy family, but ours is broken. I want to reconnect with her," Freya replied.
Cora advised, "You should discuss this with your siblings."
"I will," Freya assured her, "but only after we arrive there." The anticipation of what lay ahead mixed with a blend of emotions as Freya prepared to bridge the gap that had kept them apart for so long.
On Sunday, the sun shone brightly as Freya meticulously packed an assortment of delectable homemade goodies for her brother Luca and sister Luna. The twins shared an extraordinary bond that seemed to transcend the ordinary sibling relationship. Freya took great joy in ensuring her loved ones were well taken care of, even though Luca was convinced they could easily grab a bite to eat elsewhere.
"I know you don't need it, but I enjoy making food for you both," Freya said, a hint of a happy smile playing on her lips.
Luca continued to protest but was swiftly interrupted by Luna, always the peacemaker. "Come on, let's not argue. Axel is waiting for us," Luna chimed in, her voice a gentle melody.
With their bags packed and the scent of homemade treats wafting through the air, they embarked on their adventure in the old family car. Freya's best friend, Cora, hopped in, her vibrant spirit instantly brightening the atmosphere.
As they drove along, Axel, Luna's ever-caring boyfriend, couldn't help but express his concerns. "Are you sure it's safe to go there? I mean, with everything happening around," he asked, genuine worry etched on his face.
Freya, always confident and dauntless, replied, "Of course it's safe. We'll be fine." Her voice held a touch of determination, a hint that there was more to her motivations than she let on. But before she could delve into her reasoning, Axel handed her a crumpled newspaper article, his eyes filled with unease.
"Take a look at this," he said. Freya glanced at the article, her heart sinking as she read about the tragic murder of a young girl at Vandana Lake—the very place they were headed.
Luca's anger surged, his words peppered with frustration. "How could you, Freya? This is dangerous! We should turn back!" His voice filled the car, a storm brewing in his eyes.
Cora, ever the voice of reason, stepped in to calm the brewing tempest. "Don't worry, guys. That was old news. It's probably much safer now," she assured them, her tone soothing yet tinged with hidden uncertainty
Luca, unable to let go of his concerns, warned his sister with a mischievous glint in his eye, "If something happens to me, Freya, I'll surely haunt you in your dreams."
Luna, sensing the escalating tension, intervened, her voice gentle yet firm. "Let's not jump to conclusions. We'll assess the situation when we get there, alright?"
As they continued their journey, Freya's mind swirled with conflicting thoughts and emotions. Amidst the discussions of safety and ominous tales, she contemplated revealing her hidden plan – her desire to reconnect with their estranged mother. Fearful of their reactions, she wrestled with the uncertainty of what lay ahead. A mix of hope and trepidation danced within her, intertwining with the shadows of the unknown.