Emilia was setting the dining table one afternoon when she heard a soft knock on the kitchen door. She looked up and saw Freya standing there, holding a small bouquet of wildflowers.

“Freya!” Emilia greeted warmly, wiping her hands on a kitchen towel as she walked over. “You’re back. And with flowers, too?”

Freya smiled, though there was a hint of shyness in her expression. “I saw them by the edge of the forest and thought they’d bring some brightness to Raymond’s room. He’s… still resting, I hope?”

Emilia nodded, gesturing for Freya to enter. “He is. And he’ll be thrilled to have more flowers. You’ve brought so many gifts,...