Cordelia stepped onto the small porch of her new home, the quilt Ash had given her draped over her arms. The morning sun warmed her skin, and the wind carried the faint scent of juniper and desert wildflowers. For the first time in ages, she felt the weight of constant fear lift just slightly. She inhaled, letting herself savor the quiet.
Her little cabin was modest...two bedrooms, a small kitchen, and a cozy living area with enough space for her to finally feel a semblance of independence. The air was different here, crisp and untamed, but safe. For the first time, she could imagine herself staying in one place without looking over her shoulder every few minutes.
With a tentative smile, she stepped onto the dirt path leading to the main road, exploring her new town. Sedona’s streets wer
