The morning air was crisp, carrying the scent of damp pavement and autumn leaves. Ryhei's breath came in steady puffs as her feet pounded rhythmically against the quiet suburban sidewalk. The sky was still tinged with the last traces of dawn, soft hues of pink and orange stretching across the horizon. It was early enough that the streets were empty, just the way she liked it—no distractions, no crowds. Just her, the road, and the steady beat of her pulse.

Then she heard it.

Footsteps. Fast. Heavy. Gaining.

Her heart stuttered. At first, she thought it was another jogger, but something felt… off. The pace was too aggressive, too determined. A sharp glance over her shoulder confirmed it—a man, clad in dark clothing, sprinting after her. His head was down, but his movements were purposeful.

Panic seized her chest, sending a surge of adrenaline through her veins. Without hesitation, she pushed herself faster, her muscles burning as she tore down the street. She wove through the familiar maze of houses, her mind racing. Where could she go? Who would—

Then she saw it.

The street sign flickered under the dim morning light, and recognition hit her like a wave. A few blocks ahead, just beyond that row of houses, was a place she hadn’t thought about in years.

Simon Riley’s house.

Her childhood friend. The one she hadn’t spoken to in forever.

Would he even recognize her? Would he help her?

The pounding footsteps behind her grew louder. She was running out of time.

Ryhei had to decide—keep running into the unknown or take the chance and turn toward the only person who might save her.