The familiar landscape unfolded slowly around us, yet everything appeared transformed, as if touched by magic. My heart quickened as I took in the vibrant flowers planted along neatly repaired pathways, houses freshly painted, roofs mended, and gardens flourishing beautifully under the warm sun. It was as though life itself had returned, breathing hope and beauty back into the packlands I'd once known as broken and harsh.
"Mom, look at this," I whispered softly, awe coloring my words as my eyes took in the scene before us. My mother’s eyes sparkled with happiness as she looked out the window, her lips curving into a gentle smile.
"It's amazing," she replied warmly. "Brooks has done wonders here."
My breath caught sharply at the mention of his name, my heart fluttering anxiously within m
