EMILY
As I dressed, I felt an overwhelming urge to take a stroll and acquaint myself with the environment, having thus far only ventured out by car. “It's all good, Emily,” I repeated, taking deep, steady breaths.
The area proved to be remarkably tranquil, with houses spaced at generous intervals, and an air of quiet curiosity pervading the streets. It seemed that everyone knew one another, and I couldn't help but feel a tad self-conscious as I walked, sensing that I was being watched by the locals. The surroundings were teeming with wildlife, including geese and an assortment of other birds, whilst wildflowers sprouted freely from compounds that appeared to have been abandoned. I noticed that cycling seemed to be popular here, with many residents pedalling along the roads, and there al
