**Chapter 8: Shadows in the Night**

As Judd's words hung in the air, Andrew's instincts screamed at him to run. He took a step back, his eyes darting towards the street, hoping to see Nick's car or anyone who could help. But the street was empty, and Judd's smile only grew wider. "Hey, I didn't mean to scare you," Judd said, taking a step closer to Andrew. "I just wanted to talk to you about tomorrow's project. I'm really excited to work with you." Andrew tried to keep his tone calm, but his voice shook slightly. "Yeah, me too. But I think I'm going to head inside now. It's getting late." Judd nodded, but he didn't move. "Of course, I understand. But before you go, I wanted to give you something." He reached into his pocket and pulled out a small package wrapped in brown paper. Andrew's heart sank. "What's that?" he asked, trying to keep his distance. Judd held out the package. "Just a little something I found. I think you might like it." Andrew hesitated, unsure of what to do. Part of him wanted to take the package and get rid of Judd as quickly as possible, but another part of him was curious. What could be inside? As he stood there, frozen in indecision, Judd took a step closer. "Come on, Andrew. Just take it. It's a gift." Andrew's instincts screamed at him to refuse, but his curiosity got the better of him. He reached out and took the package, feeling a surge of unease as his fingers brushed against Judd's. The package was small and lightweight, and as Andrew unwrapped the brown paper, he saw that it was a book. The cover was old and worn, with strange symbols etched into the leather. "What's this?" Andrew asked, trying to keep his voice steady. Judd's smile grew wider. "It's an old family heirloom. I thought you might find it interesting." Andrew opened the book, and as he did, he saw that the pages were filled with strange writings and diagrams. He felt a shiver run down his spine as he realized that this was no ordinary book. "I don't understand," Andrew said, looking up at Judd. "What is this?" Judd's eyes gleamed in the fading light. "It's a journal," he said. "A journal of secrets and lies. And I think you're going to find it very interesting." As Andrew looked into Judd's eyes, he knew that he had to get away from him. He turned to go inside, but Judd's voice stopped him. "Andrew, don't think you can just ignore me. I'll be watching you, and I'll be waiting for you tomorrow. We have a lot to discuss." Andrew's heart was racing as he pushed open the door and stepped inside. He slammed the door shut behind him, feeling a sense of relief wash over him. But as he looked down at the book in his hand, he knew that he was in for a lot more than he had bargained for. The question was, what secrets lay hidden in the pages of this mysterious journal, and what did Judd want from him?