Chapter 20

Noelle stood still, letting the soft warmth of the sun kiss her skin. She closed her eyes for a moment, just letting herself breathe in the fresh air. It had been years since she had a long travel and seeing a new sight somehow lightened the burden.

The petals of the flower beneath her fingers were delicate, and the vibrant colors seemed to reflect a kind of peace she hadn’t known she was craving. She had come here to find herself, or maybe just a moment to escape. But now as she stood there, she wasn’t sure it mattered. She was exactly where she needed to be, even if she didn’t know what that meant yet.

As the breeze danced around her, she let out a soft sigh.

“Maybe I do deserve to be happy,” she whispered to the flower in her hand, as if seeking confirmation.

For a fleeting moment, she allowed herself to believe it. It was a small victory, but for Noelle, it was everything. She smiled softly, holding the flower to her chest as she turned her gaze toward th