#Chapter 281: The Traitor

Nathan The summer of our third year as best friends was one of those idyllic times that seemed to stretch on forever, every day a new adventure waiting to be had. Olivia, with her endless imagination and powerful personality, was often the little leader of our escapades. Her honey golden hair would always sway as she ran, her laughter filling the woods where we played. Alvin and I were always by her side, content to be part of the fantasies she conjured up. That day, the sun bathed the forest clearing in a warm, golden hue. We were in the midst of one of our favorite games: Queens & Knights. As always, Olivia was the queen, regal in her makeshift crown made of intertwined daisies. She would make decrees, command her subjects—imaginary friends, mostly—and bask in the glow of her fictitious royalty. I stood by her side, her loyal knight, draped in an old curtain that served as my armor. My wooden sword, crafted by Olivia’s father, hung by my side. I