Chapter Eight: Shadows from the Past

The sense of peace and progress in Ashton Hill was palpable as summer gave way to autumn. The community projects initiated by Saint and Emily flourished, and the town seemed to have found its rhythm again. However, the past has a way of casting long shadows, and Saint was soon reminded that not all battles are won so easily.

One crisp morning, Saint received a letter in the mail. The envelope was plain, but the handwriting on it was unfamiliar. Curiosity piqued, he opened it and found a single sheet of paper with a brief, cryptic message:

"Your father’s story isn’t over. Meet me at the old mill at midnight."

There was no signature, no indication of who had sent it. The old mill, long abandoned and rumored to be haunted, was a place that had figured prominently in local legends and ghost stories. Saint felt a chill run down his spine. He knew he couldn’t ignore the message, but he also knew it could be a trap.

Saint decided to tell Emily about the letter. They met at the diner, their usual spot, and he handed her the note. She read it, her brow furrowing in concern.

"This could be dangerous," she said, her voice steady but worried.

"I know," Saint replied. "But it might also be the key to finally understanding everything about my father’s death. I can’t walk away from it."

Emily nodded, her eyes meeting his with determination. "Then we’ll go together. You...