River’s eyes brimmed with tears.
Without warning, she stood and walked around the table, throwing her arms around the older woman in a tight, desperate hug. Mrs. Stella tensed for a moment, then embraced her in return.
“Thank you,” River whispered, voice cracking. “For your patience… for teaching me. Whatever happens today, you have my eternal gratitude.”
Mrs. Stella held her for a moment longer, then nodded. “Go now, child. You need to prepare. Wear something white. And… if you feel pain, don’t run from it. Let it burn through you. Face it. Open your heart. That’s the only way to survive.”
River stepped away, wiping her eyes. She gave one last nod of gratitude before turning toward the door.
As she walked through the echoing halls of the castle toward her chambers, her chest was tigh
