Chapter 29: Once Was Shall Be

The sun played with the river, casting a golden shimmer across the water as it danced and sparkled. The trees swayed in the distance, their leaves rustling in the gentle breeze, their green hues illuminated by the rising sun. The colors were more brilliant than all the paints she had in her studio, vibrant and alive with the promise of a new day.

As Elara took in the beauty of the morning, a sense of gratitude washed over her. She had been given the gift of another day, another opportunity to explore the world around her and embrace the journey ahead. With Father Thomas's blessings and the tokens he had bestowed upon her, she felt renewed purpose and determination.

She turned back inside and, as swift as a sparrow, brought out Aiden's picture from the frame. She smiled as she rolled up the canvas and took it with her as she left the house.