Chapter 63

Elena’s POV

I froze, my heart skipping a beat as I heard the words on the other end of the line. "Elena, I'm so sorry to inform you that Rachel's body was found earlier today. We believe it was a homicide."

I felt like I'd been punched in the gut. Rachel, my friend, my confidante, was gone. I couldn't believe it.

"When did it happen?" I asked, my voice shaking.

"We're still investigating, but it looks like it happened sometime last night. We'll need you to come down to the station to answer some questions."

I nodded, even though they couldn't see me. "Okay, I'll be right there."

As I hung up the phone, I felt a wave of grief wash over me. Rachel was gone, and I knew exactly who was responsible. Alex.

I thought back to our conversation just days before, where she had told me about her fears. I should have done more to protect her. I should have been there for her.

The guilt and anger swirled inside me, a toxic mix that threatened to consume me. But I knew I had to stay focused. I had