Mariana cringes in the corner of the alley, trying to control her rapid breathing and stifle her sobbing sobs.
She clings to the hope that the voices and footsteps she hears are not Maxwell's or Isabella's, but fear consumes her, and she cannot help but fear the worst.
The noises become louder, indicating that people are approaching quickly. Mariana presses one hand against her mouth to hold back any sound that might betray her. Her heart beats strongly in her chest, and the tension increases with each second.
Suddenly, a figure passes through the alley, and Mariana holds her breath. She cringes even more, trying to blend into the shadows, hoping she won't be seen. The footsteps stop very close to her hiding place, and the girl closes her eyes, expecting the worst.
"Did you see anyone
