Chapter 31

After a deeply satisfying meal, Abigail fell into a heavy sleep that night. The morning alarm at six failed to rouse her, and she did not stir until half-past nine. The persistent rain from the night before had ceased, and now the sun shone brightly outside her window. As she gazed through the floor-to-ceiling glass, a breathtaking scene of a shimmering green lake and snow-capped mountains bathed in golden light captured her attention. Abigail felt an unexpected surge of happiness and serenity.

Before visiting the highlands, Abigail had read countless posts online about how the region could cleanse and purify one's soul. She had been skeptical, but now that she was here, she found herself a believer. City dwellers were always swamped with work, studies, or mindlessly scrolling through short videos on their phones. Taking a break in such a serene place for a week or two could truly be a life-changing experience.

Lost in her thoughts, Abigail jumped when the doorbell unexpectedly rang.