A Second Chance at Forever (Eleanor and Bernard) novel Chapter 1059

The area was as dark as a crypt, with only the weak glow of a distant streetlight casting an eerie light on the overgrown bramble bush in front, exposing a large indentation in the earth.

Cedric stepped towards the brambles, bending over, his hands shaking as he pushed aside the prickly foliage.

The sight that met him – Hailey, lying on the ground, her clothes torn, her body smeared with blood – shocked him to his core.

He'd never experienced such terror before. It was as if his blood had suddenly frozen in his veins.

His heart pounded against his chest, feeling as though it had been dropped into an abyss, the sheer dread robbing him of breath.

He tried to speak, to say something to Hailey, but the words refused to leave his throat.

It was as if someone had clenched his throat in a vice. All he could do was extend a shaky hand to touch Hailey's icy face.

At his touch, Hailey flinched. She tried to move but found she couldn't.

Her tears mixed with the blood, trickling from the corner of her eyes.

"Please, don't touch me... please..."

Hearing her plea, Cedric's heart ached so much he could hardly breathe.

"Hailey, it's me."

His voice stopped Hailey in her tracks.

She turned her dry eyes towards him, slowly lifting her eyelids.

Her vision was blurred, and she could hardly make out his face, let alone recognize him.

"No matter who you are, don't touch me... please, don't touch me..."

Hearing Hailey's words, Cedric's eyes welled up with tears.

"Hailey, it's me, Cedric."

Cedric...

I know it's you, Cedric.

And that's why I don't want you to see me like this...

Hailey turned her head away, not wanting him to see her in this sorry state, but the tears flowed freely.