A week passed, and Julian still hadn't found anyone he could truly talk to. The weight in his chest lingered, and though he smiled when his family was around, inside he felt more and more alone. Most of the days slipped by quietly, filled with him waiting at home, his thoughts circling like restless birds.
"Julian!!"
The sudden call jolted him. He looked toward the doorway and hurried over. Pulling the door open, he found Healer William standing outside, slightly hunched, his white hair falling messily around his shoulders. In his hands, he carried a woven basket brimming with fresh herbs, his breath a little uneven from the walk.
Julian quickly stepped aside to let him in. "What's wrong, Healer?" he asked.
"Can I come in?" William asked, his voice calm but tired. His eyes softened in the way elders often looked at younger men they worried about.
