As I watched Vivian's retreating form disappear down the path, a sense of unease settled upon me. Our conversation had been tense, with an undercurrent of hostility that I found unpleasant and, if I were being honest, mildly concerning.
Vivian had been my closest confidante for decades, our friendship forged in the crucible of shared experiences and unspoken understanding. She was the one constant in my life, after decades of being nothing but a pawn while I paid for all of my past mistakes.
And yet, in recent months, a growing rift had formed between us, one that I was at a loss to mend.
She's become different ever since I returned from the empire. More headstrong, more hostile.
I sighed, running a hand through my hair as I turned to re-enter the house. Vivian's parting words still
