Chapter 78

Amelia

We arrive at Lily’s, and I retrieve the spare key from under the carpet, allowing Beatrice and I access to her house. As we step inside, the strong scent of herbs overwhelms me, stirring a deep sense of concern for her well-being.

“Lily?” I call out, my voice echoing through the stillness. “It’s Amelia.”

A muffled response drifts down from the upper floor, and I turn to Beatrice with a pleading look.

“Would you mind waiting here while I go up and see her?” I ask, my tone laced with a desperate sort of urgency.

Beatrice nods, her expression soft with understanding. “Of course, child,” she murmurs, giving my hand a gentle squeeze. “Take all the time you need.”

With a grateful smile, I make my way up the stairs, my heart pounding a frantic rhythm against my ribs. When I reach Lily’s door, I pause for a moment, drawing in a shaky breath before raising my hand to knock.

“Come in,” Lily’s voice calls from within, sounding weaker tha