Chapter 2: The Stranger's Gaze

  Maya's eyes met the stranger's, and for a moment, time stood still. His piercing blue gaze seemed to bore into her soul, as if searching for secrets she'd kept hidden. She felt a shiver run down her spine, despite the warmth of the café.

  As she broke the gaze, Maya turned to the counter, ordering her usual coffee and pastry. But her mind kept wandering back to the stranger. Who was he? What brought him to Ravenswood?

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  As she waited for her order, Maya couldn't help but sneak glances at the stranger. He sat motionless, his eyes never leaving hers. It was unnerving, yet exhilarating.

  When she received her order, Maya made her way to her favorite table by the window, trying to focus on her book. But her attention kept drifting back to the stranger. She felt exposed, vulnerable.

  Suddenly, her phone buzzed, breaking the spell. Maya's heart skipped a beat as she read the text: "We're watching you." Her eyes darted to the stranger, but he was now engrossed in his own book.

  Was it just a coincidence, or was he connected to the ominous message? Maya's mind raced with questions, her sense of unease growing.