Hattie:
The forest closed around us like a living entity, branches overhead intertwined to form a protective canopy, leaves whispering softly as the wind gently caressed them. Sunlight filtered through the dense foliage, scattering golden pools of warmth across the uneven ground. My mother's breathing had grown shallow and ragged beside me, her exhaustion evident in every strained movement. I gripped her arm tighter, offering silent strength as we navigated the winding path toward our destination.
Finally, the small clearing appeared before us, a quaint cabin nestled comfortably in the heart of the woods. Smoke curled lazily from its stone chimney, mingling with the misty air, lending an air of tranquility to the scene. Yet beneath that peace, anticipation coiled in my chest, a mixture o
