CHAPTER 13

(SHEILA’S POV)

Normally, the scent of herbs in Willowhart's living space would have brought solace to my troubled soul. However, today, even the soothing aroma failed to ease the searing pain in my heart. Guilt and self-loathing consumed me, fueled by chronic insecurities and trust issues that seemed to repel the gentle calmness offered by the herbs.

I found myself wailing in the warm presence of my mentor, Willowhart. I was on the ground, clinging to Willowhart's lap as she sat on a low stool. Willowhart offered gentle pats on my back, a silent gesture of understanding as I cried.

As the tears subsided momentarily, I looked up at Willowhart with eyes red and puffy from crying. “I... I love Orion. I've actually fallen for him, Elder Willow,” I confessed, despite my trembling voice laced with a sense of resignation. “But he... he deserves someone better. Someone who won't bring him shame in public.”

Feeling Willowhart's comforting hand on my shoulder, I met the elder healer's gaze. He