CHAPTER THIRTY SIX – DEEP SUSPICIONS

Dejected, Scarlett placed the album back in the box, a sense of frustration gnawing at her. Every attempt to uncover the truth about Ava and the photograph seemed to lead to a dead end. Just then, Ava appeared beside her, a concerned frown marring her usually flawless features. "Scarlett, is everything alright? You look troubled." Scarlett hesitated, torn between suspicion and the unsettling kindness Ava kept displaying. "It's just… this photo album," she sighed, showing it to Ava. "It belonged to my mother, and…" Ava's eyes widened in apparent surprise. "Oh my, that's fascinating! Look at that dress your mother is wearing," she exclaimed, her voice tinged with genuine curiosity. "Such a classic style." She expertly launched into a discussion about vintage fashion trends, diverting the conversation away from the photograph and Scarlett's true purpose for showing it. By the time the shelter closed, Scarlett felt more confused than ever. Back at Clara's apartment, Scarlett recounted