C8 Chapter 8

The news of Alex's death sent shockwaves through the school, leaving students and teachers alike in a state of stunned grief. The hallways were filled with tear-stained faces, and the sound of hushed conversations and muffled sobs.

Alex's parents were overcome with emotion as they arrived at the school, their world shattered by the news of their son's untimely death. His mother collapsed into the arms of a waiting counselor, crying out in anguish, "Why? Why our son?"

The school administration was quick to announce a counseling session for students, and the police presence was heightened as they continued to investigate the murder. Detective Thompson was tasked with speaking to Alex's friends and classmates, trying to piece together the events leading up to his death.

Jules was visibly shaken, her eyes red-rimmed from crying. Emily held her close, trying to offer what comfort she could. "We're getting you out of here, okay? This is getting too crazy."

The police were reviewing the CCTV footage again, looking for any clues that might have been missed. The question on everyone's mind was: who could have done this? And why?

The investigation was ongoing, but one thing was clear: the community was in shock, and the search for answers had only just begun.

Jules suddenly broke down, her emotions boiling over. "Mum, it's happening again," she sobbed, her voice shaking. "It's my fault. My bad luck is back."

"First it took Dad, Mum, and Luke...Then it took my cousin and uncle (Emily's family)...Mum, I'm bad luck! Wahhhhh!" Jules wailed, her body shaking with sobs.

Emily's eyes widened in concern as she pulled Jules into a tight hug. "Jules, sweetie, stop it. You're not bad luck. These are just terrible coincidences. We'll get through this, together."

But Jules was beyond consolation, her grief and guilt pouring out like a pent-up flood. Emily held her close, trying to calm her down, but Jules's words hung in the air like a cry for help.