#Chapter 196: Uncharted Waters

The drive took us away from the suburban streets and into the sprawling countryside. The road stretched endlessly before us, and my eyes kept flickering to Timothy to see his expression. Every time I’d ask where he was taking us, my questions would be met with evasive answers and a growing sense of anticipation. "It's about an hour-long drive," Timothy said finally, though the mystery remained. "You'll see when we get there, Evie." I sighed, glancing out of the car window at the passing scenery. Any anxiety that I’d been feeling previously had given way to an intense curiosity. "Can't you at least give me a hint, Timothy?" He smiled, a faint, enigmatic curve of his lips. "Not yet, Evie. You'll know when we arrive." The anticipation gnawed at me, but I decided to enjoy the ride and let Timothy maintain the shroud of secrecy. I spent the peaceful silence taking note of the rolling hills, dotted with patches of wildflowers. When the car finally came to a halt, I looked around, trying