Hannah’s POV
The palace felt different that afternoon.
Quieter than usual.
But not peaceful.
Heavy.
Like something was about to happen.
I sat beside my mum’s bed, gently brushing my fingers through her hair as she slept.
Her breathing was steady.
Slow.
But weaker than before.
That alone made my chest tighten.
“She needs rest,” Tianna whispered softly beside me.
I nodded.
“I know.”
But rest didn’t stop fear.
It didn’t silence the voice inside my head that kept whispering:
Something is wrong.
My mum stirred slightly, shifting against the pillows.
I leaned closer immediately.
“Mum?”
Her eyes fluttered open slowly.
Tired.
But aware.
“You’re still here,” she murmured faintly.
A weak smile formed on her lips.
“Of course I’m still here,” I said softly.
“I’m not leaving y
