Selena.
The forest felt different the moment I stepped into it with purpose.
Earlier, it had been open, almost playful in the way the wind moved through the trees and sunlight filtered through the leaves. Now, it felt quieter. Heavier. As though it were holding its breath along with me.
The healer walked ahead with practiced ease, her steps sure and unhurried, her fingers occasionally brushing against leaves and low branches as though she knew exactly where everything was without needing to look. I followed closely behind, my gaze fixed on her back, studying her in silence.
I hadn't needed to say much when I told her that I was coming with her. She had seen it in my expression.
The questions.
They had been building for some time now, lingering at the edge of my thoughts, waiting for the right moment to be asked. Now that moment had come, and I wasn't sure if I was ready for the answers—but I knew I couldn't keep avoiding them.
