After leaving, I spent one day at my ticket's destination, then headed to the place I'd originally picked to start over with Mom. When I got there, I crashed, sleeping like the dead. I ate when I woke up, skipped meals when I didn't.
It'd been ages since I lived so recklessly. Nathaniel always kept me in check, but now? I could do whatever I wanted.
When I'd slept enough, I took the salvaged necklace to the beach. A speck of Mom's ashes clung to its inside. I tossed it into the sea, whispering, "Mom, I'm sorry I couldn't protect your ashes. I failed you. You were trapped in prison for years—now you're free in the ocean."
My voice was still hoarse, a tear sliding down my cheek.
The sea breeze brushed my face like a gentle hand, sweeping the tear away. I touched my cheek, smiling faintly
