In the blink of an eye, spring came the following year.
The snow on the hillside melted, revealing dark soil beneath.
A ring of small white flowers bloomed around Lila’s grave, their fragrance faint and gentle.
“Moon Goddess flowers,” Ethan said. “They only bloom where a soul has found peace. It’s the Moon Goddess holding her for you.”
Every morning, I sat by her grave for a while and talked to her.
Over time, it became a habit.
Almost as if she were still beside me, refusing to get out of bed.
I told her how Ash stole cured meat from the refuge again.
How Ethan’s roasted venison was too salty.
How the spring wind no longer felt cold.
Sometimes, I talked about Kieran too.
Every month, he sent things up the mountain.
Supplements.
Winter clothes.
Books.
The deliveries never st
