It was a gloomy evening as Lia packed her luggage for a trip with her classmates. Her mother helped her fold clothes neatly into the bag, but something about Lia felt different. She was smiling—not the kind of smile people wore out of excitement, but one that felt unsettling, almost eerie.
Her mother narrowed her brows and let out a light chuckle.
"You're really that happy about this trip?" she asked.
Lia froze for a second, her gaze fixed on the luggage. Her expression turned cold. Slowly, she looked up at her mother, knowing a chuckle escaping her lips.
"I've been waiting for this trip, Mom."
Her mother's smile faded. Confusion clouded her face as she watched Lia, unsure of what had just changed.
By 6 p.m., the students had gathered at the station. One by one, they boarded the train, placing their luggage in their assigned spaces. Soon, the compartments filled with noise—some students chatted excitedly, some ate snacks, while others played games. The station echoed with voices and the sharp horn of the train.
At 7:30 p.m., the train began to move. Slowly at first, then faster, its thudding rhythm filling the air. Lia and her friends played cards, laughter rising and falling with each round. Everyone was focused—except Lia. Her eyes drifted, her thoughts elsewhere.
One of her friends tapped her lap lightly.
"Lia, it's your turn."
Lia turned to her slowly, nodded, and continued the game.
By 9 p.m., the compartment grew quiet as everyone drifted off to sleep. Lia rose from her seat without a sound. She turned back once, her eyes lingering on her sleeping classmates, then began walking toward the exit.
She stood near the door as the cold breeze pierced through her body, stealing her breath and dissolving it into the night air. The train was silent now, save for the steady, echoing thud of its movement.
She inhaled deeply and exhaled. The wind swayed her hair as moonlight shimmered faintly through the clouds. With her eyes closed, Lia let out a small, quiet chuckle.
Suddenly, the train lights went out.
Total darkness—blinding and absolute.
Only the thudding of the train remained, carrying her soft laughter as it vanished into the wind.