My heart skipped a beat as Ava and I both turned to each other, our eyes widened in shock. Was that really a gunshot? In this peaceful mansion? Without saying a word, we both stood up and scanned the surrounding area, trying to pinpoint the source of the sound. The once serene garden now felt unsettling, the birds chirping had ceased and an eerie silence hung in the air. I felt a surge of fear grip my heart as my mind raced with a million possibilities. Was someone hurt? Was there danger nearby? My thoughts were interrupted by Ava’s voice, filled with concern. “Did you hear that?” she whispered, her eyes searching mine for answers. I nodded, unable to find my voice. Together, we cautiously made our way towards the front of the house, following the direction of the noise. The adrenaline

