-Valindra-
It was difficult to muster a smile when sadness weighed heavily on my heart. Even though I had mastered the art of feigning happiness for years, it seemed impossible now. Why couldn’t I shake this strange ache in my heart? Why did I feel so... out of control?
Focus on the positives. You’re liberated from your family, a voice said.
I was. I had broken free from them, and it wasn’t that Rathilion had ever mistreated me. He had been exceedingly kind. So, that was what I needed to concentrate on, I reminded myself. His kindness was sufficient. It surpassed what most had ever shown me.
I managed to compose myself by the time we reached Rathilion’s parents. I had conversed with his mother previously, but this marked my first encounter with his father. He exuded an intriguing aura
