Chapter 84

She got out of the tent and took in the view of the forest around her. The morning was beautiful, and the trees were covered in dew. She took a deep breath, enjoying the fresh air.

Then she noticed something else. There were footprints in the mud. They were small and delicate, like a child's footsteps. She followed them, curious about where they were leading.

They led her to a clearing, where she saw something she never expected to see. A little girl, about five years old, was sitting in the middle of the clearing.

She was dressed in a white dress, and her hair was tied back in a braid. She was staring at the ground, and she didn't seem to notice Ava. Ava approached her slowly, not wanting to startle her.

"Hello" she said, her voice soft. The little girl looked up at her, and smiled.

"Hello" she said, her voice small and sweet. "What are you doing out here?" Ava asked, curious.

"I'm waiting for my mommy" the little girl said, her eyes wide and innocent.

"Oh" Ava said, feeling a