Emily's POV

Emily's anxiety had not waned despite the passing days. Jack's absence from school created an unsettling calm, which only heightened her fear. It was as if the silence was the calm before the storm, and she couldn't shake the feeling that something was coming. The rumors about her involvement in Miss Janice's death continued to swirl, and with Jack out of sight, Emily felt more vulnerable than ever.

She was on her way to her final appointment with Dr. Matthews, hoping that this session would help her find some clarity amidst the chaos. The psychiatrist's office, with its calming decor and soft lighting, was a stark contrast to the turmoil brewing inside Emily.

Dr. Matthews greeted her with a warm smile. "Hello, Emily. It's good to see you. How have you been?"

Emily forced a smile, though her anxiety was palpable. "Hi, Dr. Matthews. I've been... managing. It's been a tough few weeks."

Dr. Matthews nodded empathetically. "I understand. It's normal to feel overwhelmed given everything you've been through. Let's talk about what's been on your mind lately."

Emily hesitated. She couldn't bring herself to share the full extent of her fears or her plans regarding Jack. Instead, she focused on the more general sense of dread she was experiencing. "I've been feeling a lot of anxiety. It's like there's always something waiting to go wrong. I can't seem to shake it off."

Dr. Matthews listened attentively, her gaze steady and understanding. "It sounds like you're carrying a lot of emotional weight. Sometimes, our minds can become fixated on the fears and challenges we face. It's important to address those feelings, but also to find ways to move forward."

Emily's gaze dropped to her hands, which were clenched tightly in her lap. "I don't know if I can move on. There's so much that's happened, and I feel like I'm trapped in this cycle."

Dr. Matthews leaned forward slightly, her tone gentle but firm. "Emily, it's crucial to acknowledge that while the past shapes us, it doesn't have to define our future. Holding on to anger and fear can prevent us from moving forward. It's important to find a way to let go of the things that are causing you pain."

Emily looked up, her eyes meeting Dr. Matthews'. "Let go? How am I supposed to do that when it feels like everything is closing in on me?"

Dr. Matthews gave her a reassuring smile. "Letting go doesn't mean forgetting or dismissing what happened. It means allowing yourself to release the hold that these experiences have on your life. You have the power to shape your own path, and it's okay to seek a better future for yourself. Sometimes, that means distancing yourself from the things and people that are causing you distress."

Emily's heart ached as she listened. The thought of letting go of her fears and her anger towards Jack felt impossible. But Dr. Matthews' words resonated with her. "So, you're saying I should just... move on?"

"Not just move on," Dr. Matthews said softly. "But find a way to heal and focus on what will bring you peace and fulfillment. It's about finding balance and not letting past hurts dictate your future. Your well-being is important, and it's okay to prioritize your own happiness."

Emily took a deep breath, trying to absorb the advice. "I'll think about it. It's just hard to see how that's possible right now."

Dr. Matthews nodded. "Take it one step at a time. It's a process, and it's okay to take things slowly. Remember, you're not alone in this. There's support available if you need it."

As the session ended, Emily left the office feeling a mixture of confusion and hope. Dr. Matthews' advice was practical, but the reality of her situation made it difficult to imagine a future where she could simply let go of her fears.

Returning to school, Emily's unease grew as she noticed the absence of Jack's presence. She couldn't shake the feeling that something was looming, and she needed to be prepared.

Determined to stay ahead, she headed to the administrative office, where the usual buzz of activity was replaced by a tense silence. She slipped inside, taking advantage of the distraction among the staff, and headed straight for the computer.

The old-school record system was shockingly easy to access—no password, just a series of dated files. Emily searched quickly and found an old address linked to Jack. It was the only lead she had, and her heart raced as she wrote down the address.

She packed a small bag with essentials that evening. The address might provide crucial information, and she knew she needed to investigate it further. Before she left, she took a final look around her room. The shadows of her fears seemed to linger, reminding her of the uncertainty she faced.

Emily took a deep breath, steeling herself for the journey ahead. The night was dark, and the road was uncertain, but she knew she had to uncover the truth about Jack and face whatever lay ahead. Her survival depended on it.