Aliyah's lip curled faintly as the Black Witch's words lingered in the air.
“You’ve truly grown.”
The warmth of the witch's hand still lingered on Aliyah’s cheek, soothing and gentle. Almost without thought, Aliyah lifted her hand to rest upon it. Her palm pressed gently covering the witch’s palm. The heat of that touch seeped into her, grounding her in a way she hadn't felt in so long.
Her lashes lowered, shutting out the world. In a soft breath, she whispered, “Indeed… I have.”
When her eyes opened slowly, she gave the faintest nod of certainty. A quiet confirmation that she had really grown.
“How do you feel now?” the Black Witch asked, studying her eyes.
Aliyah drew in a breath and muttered, the words soft yet laced with quiet strength. “Better than ever.” Her lips curved into a
