I nodded slowly, throat tightening sharply, tears slipping silently down my cheeks once more. Guilt, relief, gratitude all surged fiercely within my chest, mingling together until I felt overwhelmed, utterly vulnerable.
For once, I let myself crumble. I leaned carefully against Mara's bed, exhaustion finally taking control, my eyelids heavy, breathing ragged. My grip tightened slightly on Mara's hand, needing the reassurance of her touch.
Slowly, gently, sleep reached out, wrapping me in its soft embrace. My breathing gradually steadied, tears drying quietly on my face, leaving salty tracks down my cheeks. My consciousness drifted, leaving behind the cold memories of chains, torture, and fear, replaced instead by the soothing presence of family, comfort, and safety.
