Chapter 4 The Stranger in Town

Chapter Four: The Stranger in Town

Emily's unease lingered long after she'd explored the house. She couldn't shake the feeling that someone was watching her, and the music box seemed to be the source of the strange sensation.

As the sun dipped below the horizon, casting Ravenswood in a warm orange glow, Emily decided to take a walk into town. The fresh air and exercise might help clear her head and calm her nerves.

As she strolled down Main Street, Emily noticed a figure standing outside the local café. He was tall, with broad shoulders and piercing blue eyes that seemed to see right through her. His dark hair was messy, as though he'd just rolled out of bed, and his smile was charming, but slightly guarded.

"Hi," he said, his voice low and smooth. "I'm Ryan Thompson. I've been waiting for you."

Emily's instincts prickled. "Waiting for me? How did you know I was coming?"

Ryan chuckled. "Small town, remember? News travels fast. I'm the owner of the local newspaper, and I heard you were coming back to town."

Emily's eyes narrowed. "What do you want, Mr. Thompson?"

Ryan's smile faltered for a moment before he recovered. "Please, call me Ryan. I want to welcome you back to Ravenswood, and maybe discuss a potential story for the newspaper."

Emily hesitated, unsure if she should trust this stranger. But something about Ryan's warm smile and easy manner put her at ease.

"Okay, Ryan," she said, her voice softening. "I'd love to chat."

As they walked into the café, Emily couldn't shake the feeling that Ryan was hiding something. But she was determined to uncover the truth, and maybe, just maybe, Ryan Thompson would be the key to unlocking the secrets of Ravenswood.