AvaI sighed as I scanned the list of tasks the lead decorator had given me, my heart sinking a little more with each item. Picking up the floral centerpieces, setting up the photography backdrop, ensuring the refreshment tables were properly stocked—it was all just a harsh reminder of the reality I
Ophelia’s eyes sparkled. “All the more reason for me to be here, don’t you think? After all, what are friends for if not to help each other through the tough times?”I opened my mouth to respond, but Leonard beat me to it, his voice a touch higher than usual as he addressed Ophelia.“Um, excuse me,
AvaI stared at Chris in stunned silence, my heart pounding furiously.“Ava,” he said, “I need to talk to you.”Before I could formulate a response, Ophelia appeared at my side, her silk, feather-trimmed pajamas fluttering around her ankles and wrists. “Chris?”Chris’s eyes flickered to her briefly
I couldn’t help but snort at the suggestion, shaking my head in disbelief. “Ophelia, we’re not teenagers anymore.”“Speak for yourself, darling,” she quipped. “I, for one, relish any opportunity to let loose and have a bit of fun—no matter my age.”Chris, who had been watching our exchange in silenc
AvaI wiped the water from my eyes, my heart still pounding from the leap Chris and I had taken into the glowing pool. As I gasped for breath, pushing tendrils of damp hair away from my face, I caught sight of Ophelia and Leonard still engaged in a splash war across the pool.Chris emerged beside me
But even then, I had to look away. This was dangerous territory, not just for us, but for everyone we cared about.It was only then that I realized that a heavy silence had fallen over the cavern once more, thick and oppressive. Ophelia and Leonard had stopped their childlike play and were now tread
AvaA short while later, Chris, Leonard, and I stood dripping wet in the council room, forming a small puddle on the hardwood floor as we faced the stern gazes of the Elders.Elise, her silver hair pulled back into a severe bun, pursed her lips in disapproval and tugged her robe tighter around herse
AvaThe coroner’s grim face did little to ease the knot of dread coiled in my stomach as he approached, peeling off his latex gloves with a soft snap. Chris and I rose to our feet, wringing our hands nervously.“Well?” Chris prompted, his voice low. “What do we know?”The coroner’s jaw tightened. “T