The sound grows louder as you approach, eventually revealing itself to be a woman sobbing softly amidst the foliage. Her face is hidden by her hands, and her shoulders shake with each wracking breath. You hesitate for a moment, unsure of how to approach her, before deciding to gently clear your throat to let her know you're there.
The woman jumps at the sound of your voice, her hands flying to her mouth as she tries to stifle her sobs. Her eyes are red and puffy from crying, but she manages to look at you through tear-streaked lashes. "Who are you?" she whispers, her voice hoarse from disuse. "How did you find me here?"
Taken aback by her reaction, you hesitate for a moment before responding. "I'm sorry, I didn't mean to startle you. I just saw you crying and wanted to see if you were alright." You take a step closer, your voice softening.
The woman seems to relax slightly at your words, though she still keeps a cautious distance between you. "I... I was just having a bad day, and I needed to get away from everything for a while." She wipes at her eyes, trying to compose herself. "I didn't mean to make a scene."
The woman...