Shadows of the Heart

Chapter Three

The week passed in a blur, and before Stella quite realized it, the day of her coming-of-age celebration had arrived.

Excitement fizzed through her as she stood on the small stool inside the caravan, trying—and failing—to keep still while her mother worked on the hem of her dress. Outside, music and laughter already drifted through the air, teasing her with what awaited beyond the door.

“Hold still,” Rose muttered, concentrating as she pinned the fabric. “If you keep wriggling like that, you’ll end up with a pin stuck in you.”

“But Mama,” Stella protested, grinning as she tried to twist around to glimpse herself in the mirror, “I can’t help it. I’m excited. The dress you made is so beautiful.”

Rose didn’t smile. Her fingers slowed, then paused altogether.

“Anyway,” Stella went on, finally noticing the tension in the room, “why do you look so glum? It’s supposed to be a happy day.”

Rose exhaled softly, her gaze lingering on her daughter’s reflection. “It is a happy day,” she said, though her voice lacked conviction. “But you need to understand something, Stella. This isn’t only about coming of age. It’s about commitment. About taking your place in the community and doing what is expected of you—according to our traditions.”

She swallowed hard, eyes shining. “I don’t think you truly understand what that means yet.”

A flicker of unease passed through Stella, but before she could respond, a loud knock sounded at the door.

Stella jumped down from the stool and rushed to open it.

Poppy burst inside, cheeks flushed with excitement, dark curls bouncing as she spoke. “Stella, are you ready yet? Everyone’s waiting by the fires! Uncle Joe’s playing his violin—oh, it’s wonderful out there. Hurry up, let’s dance!”

Her eyes widened as she finally took Stella in. “Oh wow,” she breathed. “You look amazing. That dress is beautiful. You’ve outdone yourself, Mrs. C.”

Rose managed a faint smile, but said nothing.

Stella stood there, suddenly shy beneath her friend’s gaze.

The flame-red dress clung softly to her slender frame, the color vivid against her pale skin. Her long blonde hair fell loose down her back, catching the firelight that spilled through the doorway. She looked almost unreal—radiant, striking, and heartbreaking out of place.

For a moment, even Stella felt it.

And somewhere beyond the laughter and music, unseen eyes were already watching.