Swiftcurrent Creek In the back of my mind, I'm still overseas;

Morwenna’s gaze softened, drawn by Arlette’s unexpected invitation and warmth. She didn’t speak for a long moment, her heart stilled by the quiet notion that perhaps her life, once so fractured and desolate, might still hold the promise of renewal. It was as though Arlette’s words had sparked something deep within, an ember not yet extinguished. She dipped her head, masking the tentative smile with a short, gentle laugh.

Don’t be surprised if I get them all wrong, she murmured, the faintest quiver of hope lacing her tone, before falling in step behind Arlette. Her gaze drifted across the path ahead, a sense of yearning touching her expression as she followed to the garden, where vibrant life flourished with abandon. In this moment, Morwenna felt perhaps she might, too, find herself capable of growth, even if she was unsure how or where that path would lead.

Arlette’s steady steps and the patient warmth radiating from her presence filled Morwenna with a subtle, cautious optimism, something she hadn’t allowed herself in quite some time.