Shadows of Willow Creek

Chapter 1: The Homecoming

Amelia Davenport hadn’t set foot in Willow Creek for fifteen years, not since the night that had shattered her life and driven her away from the only home she’d ever known. But now, standing at the edge of the town’s main street, she felt the weight of the past pressing down on her like a physical force.

She’d come back for her mother’s funeral, a duty she couldn’t avoid. But as she walked through the familiar streets, memories assailed her from every corner. The old movie theater where she’d had her first kiss, the park where she’d played with her childhood friends — and the darkened alley where her best friend, Lily, had been found dead all those years ago.

Amelia shuddered, pushing the thought away. She’d come to terms with Lily’s death long ago, or so she’d told herself. But being back in Willow Creek made it all feel raw and fresh again, like a wound that had never truly healed.

Chapter 2: Ghosts of the Past

The funeral was a somber affair, attended by a small group of Amelia’s mother’s friends and neighbors. Amelia stood apart from the others, feeling like a stranger in her own hometown.

As she turned to leave the cemetery, a familiar voice called out to her. “Amelia? Is that you?”

Amelia turned to see a man approaching her, his face etched with lines of grief and age. It took her a moment to recognize him as Jack Mitchell, Lily’s older brother.