“I didn’t bring it in; it was already here, quivering on the shelf.” Katelyn’s eyes landed on the bird—a humble sparrow, common to the woods. It had probably flown in on its own.

Now, she understood. It turned out to be a mere misunderstanding.

“Well, you can check with the manager if you need any birdseed.” Katelyn lingered for a moment longer before moving toward the door.

“I’ll be off then. Remember to lock your door.” Even in a hotel, caution was never a bad idea.

Ashlyn gave a small nod.

With that, Katelyn left Ashlyn’s room. But as she stepped into the hallway, a sense of unease settled over her. Everything seemed too perfectly timed.

Vincent’s room was right on the other side. Without a second thought, she headed toward his door.

At the same time, someone in the corner quietly snapped a photo with a phone.

Inside the room, Katelyn stepped in to find Vincent deep in conversation with Samuel at the study desk. As her footsteps neared, Vincent glanced up, his voice low and smooth.

“There’s food over there. Sit down for a bit; I’ll join you in a while.”

Katelyn merely nodded, her response a soft murmur, “Alright.” She sank into the sofa, beginning to sift through the never-ending stack of tasks.

Two hours later, Vincent finally set aside his work. Katelyn remained absorbed in her tasks.

“Are you tired?” Vincent’s voice broke the stillness.

She lifted her gaze, a small shake of her head followed by a smile.

Your imagination thrives at puntocom

“I’m alright. Has Samuel left?” Her gaze instinctively moved toward the study. Samuel was gone.

Vincent replied, “Yes. Look at this.”

Katelyn’s eyes fell on the document he was holding, and only then did she realize what he had. She took it from him. The pages inside were filled with meticulous records about Ashlyn, far more detailed than anything Alfy had uncovered before. This wasn’t something one could find with a simple online search; it felt as though they had traveled to Miexham to gather the information firsthand.

Vincent continued, “According to this, everything about Ashlyn—her experiences, even her appearance—lines up with who she is today.” The implication hit Katelyn like a wave. Ashlyn and Sophia truly looked identical.

Katelyn shot a quick glance at Vincent before telling him everything that had happened in Ashlyn’s room. Vincent listened intently.

When she finished, he said softly, “From what we know, they’re not the same person. You were with Ashlyn at the pool today. No disguise can stay hidden in the water.” It was clear to both of them.

Katelyn nodded, her mind struggling to catch up.

“Right.” She leaned back into the sofa, the weight of everything hitting her all at once.

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