Chapter 46: Amalea

Here I am, back where I started. Is there where I belong? Did fate put me here, or did I? It’s funny. We spend our lives fighting to move up in life one step at a time. A better education, a better place in the pack, a better house, a better life—and for what?

Staring at the stars through the tiny, barred window of the same cell I sat in years ago now on the eve of my execution, I can’t help but wonder if I ever had a chance. If I ever had a choice, or if my life has been a mere brushstroke in a masterpiece of existence meant for someone else. Has anything I’ve ever done made a difference? Will anyone remember my name? Darius might. James might. Both might not—might move on. Neither is willing to pay the cost, and our love will die as payment for their power.

Will my children remember me? Did I give them what they need to make a difference in their existence? Is the masterpiece for them? I hope that it is. I hope that I did, and that hope is an ember warming my heart in this dark hour