That night, after settling into the small, cozy room the women had offered, I finally allowed myself to let go of the tension that had followed me all this way. The darkness wrapped around me like a comfort I hadn’t realized I needed, and as I lay there, the presence of Merripen stirred within me, a comforting pulse that reminded me I was not truly alone.
Merripen, I called inwardly, my voice quiet, hesitant. There’s something I want to ask you.
Her spirit moved closer in my mind, her presence gentle, understanding. Yes, Mitchell? Or… shall I call you Lourdes now? Her voice held a hint of warmth, an acceptance of this new path we were both undertaking.
Lourdes, I whispered back, feeling the name settle more firmly in my heart. I want to stay here, to escape everything that waits for me
