Chapter 39: Dance of Forgiveness
The morning had passed with the quiet rhythm of a home still learning how to breathe again. Outside, the clouds gathered loosely over the sun, casting a silver hue over the garden that once bloomed with laughter and music. Tiania sat by the window in the lounge, a thick throw tucked around her legs, her gaze lingering on the sway of branches just beyond the glass.
She hadn’t asked to go out. She hadn’t needed to. Henrick had noticed the way her eyes followed the wind, the way her fingers rested just a little tighter on the chair’s arms whenever birds dipped toward the courtyard. He said nothing- just quietly prepared the path.
“Tiania,” he said, his voice low but clear, “I was wondering if you'd like some air.”
She turned to look at him, the pause in her answer stretched thin.
He didn’t press. “Only if you're ready.”
She hesitated. Then, slowly, she nodded. “I think I am.”
