RAVENNA
The night was heavy and pressing in on me. I sat on the edge of my bed, folding the last of my clothes with hands that trembled more than they should have. My bag was small, deliberately small, as if carrying less would trick my heart into believing I wasn't really leaving. If I kept it light, maybe it would feel temporary, maybe I could still change my mind.
Riven watched in silence. She was curled up on the mattress, her tiny chin resting on her knees, eyes wide and curious. Each time I reached for another item, her gaze followed me, like she was memorizing every movement, afraid I might disappear if she blinked.
"Mummy," she said finally, her voice so soft it tugged at my heart. "Are you really leaving tomorrow?"
The question broke me, and my heart clenched. I was only goi
