#Chapter 192: Bad Omens

Olivia Deciding that I wouldn’t let the Elders’ trepidation get in the way of my daily routine, I decided to take a walk through town that morning, hoping that the fresh air and the familiarity of the streets would help clear my mind. The crisp morning air ruffled my hair as I made my way down the familiar path with Elliot and Aurora nestled comfortably in the stroller. The birds sang their usual songs, but today, their melodies seemed laced with unease. People I passed seemed different. There was a shift in their mannerisms; hushed whispers were exchanged, and heads turned my way with furtive glances. It used to be that our morning strolls would elicit smiles and a handful of women cooing over my babies, each one eager to hold and cuddle them. Today was different. The very same neighbors who had celebrated their birth now took deliberate steps to distance themselves from us. As we moved deeper into the heart of the town, I noticed Mrs. Patterson, an old woman know