Nicole followed the provided address from Callie, going alone.

Reflecting on her prior encounter, Nicole opted for solitary travel to prevent alerting Brett and to secure answers.

The destination lay quite a distance away, nestled within the suburban expanse.

According to Callie's divulgence, Brett harbored intentions of departing with Callie abroad. Their journey would commence from Ardlens, traversing by car to a secluded hamlet bordering the county, offering myriad avenues for crossing the border.

Upon Nicole's arrival, darkness had already enveloped the Landscape.

Within the suburban vicinity, only a handful of residences stood, while Brett presently took refuge with Callie in an abandoned school, biding their time for departure.

Approaching the gate, Nicole adhered to Callie's instructions, navigating through a breach in the rear wall.

The location had long been deserted, with untamed grass blanketing every inch, an optimal spot for concealment.

Nicole inspected each classroom, scrutinizing the signs, until she finally pulled open the door of the third one.

Within, a tall figure, slightly stooped, greeted her sight. Instantly, Nicole identified him as Brett.

Throughout the years, Brett's visage had undergone little alteration, yet his posture no longer maintained its former rigidity, as if the trials of life had taken their toll.

With a blend of anticipation and apprehension, Nicole rapped lightly on the door.

Brett swiftly pivoted, clutching a sturdy cane, his gaze fixed intently upon the entrance.

At the sight of Nicole, Brett's countenance underwent a dramatic shift. Bewilderment washed over him. He couldn't fathom how Nicole had managed to locate him. "You..."

Breaking the silence, Nicole spoke first. "Brett, it's been a while."

Brett exclaimed, "How did you find me?"

Before Nicole could respond, Callie interjected. "It was me. Dad, I invited Nicole here."

“Callie, are you out of your mind?" Brett erupted furiously. “Have you forgotten everything I've told you?"

"I haven't forgotten," Callie asserted, rising to her feet and speaking with fervor. "I brought Nicole here because you promised we'd leave the country and never return. But what about Nicole? Why can't you explain to her what happened that year? Is it connected to you or not? Dad..."

Callie's tears flowed freely as she continued, "I refuse to have a murderer as my father. You can't sacrifice another family's happiness for the sake of our own. I've always looked up to you, but what about now?"