CHAPTER TWENTY FOUR

—JASMINE

I feel at peace,

I don’t ever want to go home.

Perhaps it's the nostalgia that comes with having spent my entire years within these walls, because this orphanage feels more like home than anywhere else I've ever been.

The familiar creak of the wooden floors, the worn smell of the old furniture, and the faded murals on the walls all seem to envelop me in a sense of comfort and security.

As I cradle the warm mug of ginger tea in my hands, feeling the soothing warmth spread through my body, I can't help but appreciate Wayne's thoughtfulness.

He had taken it upon himself to brew the tea, knowing it was my go-to remedy for a troubled stomach.

Now, as he sits down beside me, his presence is a calming balm to my frazzled nerves. His eyes filled with concern, makes me feel seen and cared for.

“How are you now?” His voice is the most gentle voice I’ve ever heard.

“I’m okay” I nod gently. “Thanks”

“You don’t have to thank me” He says, “I’ll do this over and over again if I hav