Chapter 57

• Damon
• The morning sun painted the campsite in warm hues, casting a serene atmosphere over our makeshift breakfast table. Ashford and I huddled together, plates filled with campfire-cooked eggs and bacon. The enticing aroma blended with the earthy scent of the surrounding forest. Tents stood nearby, and the gentle rustling of leaves in the breeze created a peaceful backdrop.
• Absentmindedly, I stabbed at my eggs with a fork, my thoughts far from the cheerful banter that usually accompanied our morning meals. Sensing my somber mood, Ashford attempted to inject some humor into the atmosphere.