Chapter One
1.
Six months ago, Juniper Kale headed for the Melilem Grove to take pictures of flowers. She didn't return home or answer her phone. She is still missing to this very day.
There were wild rumours that Juniper got kidnapped when she'd arrived at Melilem Grove. That theory died out when there weren't any messages from a kidnapper. Authorities have not confirmed her as dead as her body hasn't turned up. Her loved ones are worried.
Juniper's family is desperate to find her. They posted flyers throughout the city. Their neighbours are helping them. They've appeared on TV, begging for everyone to help them.
When the police searched the Melilem Grove, they didn't find the guardians. They found Juniper's equipment bag. Sadly, the police dogs couldn't get a whiff of her scent. The police unwillingly gave up the search and let Juniper's family hear the bad news.
2.
Juniper's younger sister, Maple, was going to Melilem Grove. She didn't want to accept the bad news. She needed to find her sister. Maple currently sat in a trucker's passenger seat. The trucker had picked Maple up earlier when they were at a rest stop.
Maple was 18 years old. Her forest eyes watched the passing scenery. She studied English Literature at the local university. Her parents wanted her to be successful. Being Juniper's little sister meant she had to work harder to match everyone else's expectations.
Maple sported a 36E cup -- which had gained unwanted attention. She dyed her hair olive green. She was about 5ft 5Β inches. She wore a coral shirt -- which matched her shorts -- underwear, black socks and boots. She had a big navy duffle bag resting on her lap.
The trucker driving Maple was a big woman -- possibly 50 years old. She wore a red flannel shirt, a pair of navy blue jeans, and tall black boots. She had ginger hair and ebony eyes. Her name-tag said, "Martha." She was apparently delivering some skinny jeans.
"You're pretty brave for your age, little darling," Martha said. "I don't want to go to that bloody grove. I don't trust it. I've heard some strange rumours about that place."
"I know, but I really need to find my sister," Maple squeaked. "She needs my help."
"Yeah, sister-bond, I understand that a lot," Martha grunted. "By the way, do you have someone to pick you up? I can ask one of my buddies to pick you up later on."
Maple smiled sweetly. "No, thanks, I don't mind finding my way home."
"Okay, darling," Martha grunted. She turned the radio volume back on.