I jumped with surprise.
That sounded like Gale!
But as I listened more carefully, I noticed something different.
Galeâs voice had a cold edge, and her words were even colder.
This voice, though, was sweet, like talking to a lover.
I quickly turned to look.
I followed the sound and saw Gale talking with a man not too far away.
They were standing very close, and it seemed like there was something going on between them.
My heart sank.
Oh no! There was nowhere to hide, and I couldnât blend in with my surroundings.
If Gale just looked up a bit, sheâd spot me right away.
If she saw me here, that would ruin everything!
Just a little while ago, I had used all my strength to freeze time and save Caleb.
I hadnât recovered yet.
Plus, I didnât know where Caleb was at the moment.
Fighting Gale now wouldnât be a good idea.
I didnât waste a second and ran to the nearest tree, hoping to hide.
But as I moved, Gale seemed to sense someone was there and looked my way.
Oh no!
I clenched my teeth, feeling hopeless.
I had to get ready to fight, even if I didnât want to.
But something was off.
Why did Gale look shy and hopeful, standing there?
Her hands were clasped, and her eyes were moving around.
She wasnât looking at me but was just checking her surroundings.
Then it hit me.
Gale couldnât see me!
I was utterly baffled.
What was happening?
In Galeâs eyes, I could only see the man and the vibrant flowers and trees surrounding them.
I was invisible.
Moreover, Gale looked much younger, lacking her usual cruelty and insanity.
She seemed almost naive.
The man in front of her didnât notice me either.
He held Galeâs hand and stroked her cheek.