TESSA
Woah. This place was better than before.
The last time I’d seen it, the air was muddied with dust. Now, it was clear.
It wasn’t stripped to the bone. The trees were still here, their roots holding the ground like guardians. However, their bark appeared brushed clean and not scarred.
My steps slowed as I took it all in, my lungs pulling in air that was lighter than I remembered, yet somehow heavier in meaning. I arrived at the clearing, my breath catching when I saw that most of the attendees were already settled in their seats.
Among them, an empty seat lay waiting.
My heart leapt in ridiculous relief.
I kept my head down, determined not to let my presence be known. Owen couldn’t come because he suddenly had a work trip in a neighboring country. Poor guy, really. He was st
