CHAPTER 33 HATERED

In the soft glow of the streetlights, Madison blinked, her mind struggling to make sense of the chaos that had overtaken her thoughts. With a sigh, she realized that her fears had gotten the best of her, that the dark shadow of Connor had been nothing more than a manifestation of her anxiety. "I'm sorry," she said, her voice soft and apologetic. "I thought I saw Connor, but it was just my imagination." Michael smiled gently, his hand still holding hers. "Don't worry," he said, his eyes filled with understanding. "It's been a rough few days. Madison's smile faltered as she remembered the terrible events that had unfolded at the library, the gunshots that had taken her friend's life. "I can't believe she's gone," she whispered, her voice shaking with emotion. "She was such a good person, such a wonderful friend." Michael wrapped his arms around her, offering her a safe haven in the storm of her grief. "She'll never be forgotten," he said, his voice low and solemn. "You'll make sure