Shadows flickered across weary faces as the survivors stood in a loose formation, their focus still centered around Jack and the three girls. The earlier accusations and arguments had settled, and now there was little doubt left—Jack hadn't been the one. Even Madison, Bella, and Alice, despite their initial suspicions, had come to the same conclusion. There was simply no way he could have been in two places at once.
If anything, the only logical explanation was that either someone had deliberately tricked them or something far more disturbing was at play. But at this point, it didn't matter. What mattered now was what came next.
Ryder stepped forward, his gaze steady, his expression serious. His presence alone was enough to gather attention, and when he finally spoke, his voice carried the weight of a problem that had been lingering in everyone's minds.
"Maybe it's time we talk about the real problem."
Madison arched a brow, arms crossed as she tilted her head. "Which is?"
