Chapter 211

I declined the offer. While I was happy to see Grandma's good friend and eager to hear more about her, I still had so much to do. I politely turned down Grandma Natalie's kindness, closed the door behind me, and looked back at the house. I had tidied it up just enough to make it somewhat livable, but there was still no running water or electricity. I checked my phone for the time; it was still early. If I walked, it would take about an hour to reach town. I grabbed some cash and decided to head there. After finally arriving, I took out my phone to look up the address of the service center, but I couldn't find it online. With no other choice, I stopped someone walking past who looked kind and asked for directions. Just as I was about to head over after getting the address, I thought I heard Lyla calling my name. I instinctively stopped and looked around. All around me were unfamiliar faces. I frowned, amused at my own foolishness. When I left, I hadn't told anyone, and I rarely