As we arrived at the bustling port city of Tangier, the weight of the journey and the uncertainty ahead was evident in the weariness of our steps. The salty breeze from the sea did little to lighten the mood, and even the lively atmosphere of the market couldn't shake the tension that had settled over us.
Lily, who had been unusually quiet throughout the journey, finally couldn't hold back her concern any longer. As we found a moment of respite in a small, secluded corner of the city, she looked up at me with wide, worried eyes. "Why did we have to leave so suddenly?" she asked, her voice trembling slightly. "Is something wrong? You're not telling me everything."
I paused, struggling with what to say. I had hoped to shield her from the worst of it, but I knew that she deserved some kind of explanation. I knelt down beside her, taking her small hands in mine. "Lily," I began softly, trying to find the right words, "something happened back in Granada. Eric… he got into some trouble while trying to help someone. It's nothing you need to worry about right now, but we had to leave to keep everyone safe."
Her eyes searched mine, still filled with confusion and fear. "Is Eric going to be okay?" she whispered.
I swallowed hard, not wanting to lie to her. "I hope so," I replied, trying to keep my voice steady. "We're doing everything we can to make sure he'll be alright. But for now, we need to stay strong and stick together. We're going to be okay, Lily. I promise."
She nodded slowly, but I could see the lingering worry in her eyes. I gave her a reassuring hug, wishing that I could do more to ease her fears. As I pulled back, I smiled at her, though it felt a bit forced. "Let's get settled here for a while, and then we can figure out what to do next," I said, trying to infuse some optimism into my tone.
Lily nodded again, this time with a bit more resolve, and I could see her trying to be brave. Together, we stood up, ready to face whatever challenges awaited us in Tangier, hoping that this city would offer us the refuge we so desperately needed.