Someone was upstairs.
She remembered the shadow she had glimpsed outside just moments ago, initially thinking it was an illusion, but now she was stirred by the abrupt sound of footsteps.
There was someone here.
Instead of fear, the thought filled her with anticipation.
Who would be here?
She bit her lip slightly, mustering her courage, and began to ascend the stairs.
The entire villa was quiet, so silent that hardly any sound could be heard, making her footsteps surprisingly clear.
Amanda Smith thought if that person truly were here, then he must know she was here too.
The thought made her somewhat nervous.
The light on the second floor was much dimmer than downstairs, with a faint musty smell lingering in the air. She coughed softly and couldn't help but call out, "Is anyone there?"
Her voice carried far, but no one responded.
Her eyes slightly sore, she whispered, "Samuel, are you here?"