Novel Ships
Chapter 28
Chapter 28
When the bus arrived at the foot of Ranary Hills, it was dusk. Clara alighted and looked at the sky. The sun cast the mountains and forest in an orange glow. Unfortunately, the night was approaching.
Clara regretted coming too late. When she reached the villa, it would likely be pitch dark.
Clara glanced at her phone. It had only 20% battery left. She decided to turn it off, saving the battery for when she needed the phone’s flashlight.
An older woman who alighted with her asked, “Going up the mountain, huh? There’s no public transport going that way, you know. It’s not some touristy spot. Only well–heeled folks with villas up there.” Nôvel(D)ra/ma.Org exclusive © material.
Clara looked at her. She was around sixty with graying hair, wrinkles, and a sun–worn complexion. She seemed to be a local farmer. Clara replied, “Yes, it’s urgent. Do you know a shorter way? I want to reach halfway before it gets dark.”
“You hit the jackpot asking me! See that fork up ahead? There’s this little path. It’s way closer. It’s a bit winding and all, with bushes and weeds on the sides. Just watch out not to scratch yourself. It’d be a shame if a young girl like you got injured.” The woman pointed at it.
“Thanks!” Clara laughed dryly. She was no longer young.
The path was as described. Clara picked up a long branch to clear her path. Ranary Hills, located in the suburbs of Zwingenrath, was a cliff peak formed by geological movement. It was just about 2000 feet.
Darkness fell. Shadows grew long. Clara sensed something was amiss. There were always faint rustling sounds behind her, but when she turned, she saw nothing. She thought it might be small animals, or wild cats at first.
As Clara climbed, her uneasiness increased. Finally, she sensed movement and turned abruptly, seeing a man in a black hooded sweatshirt and a hat standing, looking sinisterly.
Clara was startled. She had seen him on the bus. He had followed her.
Realizing he was discovered, Harry leaped out of the bushes.
Clara narrowed her eyes vigilantly. “Who are you? Why are you following me?”
Harry’s greedy eyes roamed over Clara. “You’ve got some curves and a pretty face. Sweetheart, someone’s paid me to take you out. Such a pity. How about we spend some time together first? If you pleased me, I might just do it a tad quicker.”
Clara’s face paled. Someone wanted her dead? Although she could fight, it might not be enough to deal with this thug.
Harry licked his lips. His Adam’s apple bobbed. He approached, his hand outstretched.
“Stay away!” Clara growled when he was about to touch her.