Amber
The airport was bustling with movement, voices blending into an overwhelming hum around me. People hurried past with rolling suitcases, flight announcements crackled over the intercom, and the air smelled of coffee, metal, and distant jet fuel. But I barely noticed any of it.
All I could focus on was the weight in my chest.
I gripped Evalie tighter in my arms, pressing my lips against the soft tufts of blonde hair atop her tiny head. She smelled like baby powder and warmth, like home.
My home.
I wasn't ready to say goodbye.
"Amber," Ichika’s voice was gentle but firm. "You need to board soon."
I shook my head, holding Evalie closer. "I don’t know if I can do this."
Ken sighed, rubbing the back of his neck. "Sweetheart, you’ve worked so hard for this moment. We know it’s hard,
