chapter 20
Isabella's heart skipped a beat when a servant rushed into her room, with news that sent a shiver of disbelief and joy down her spine: her mother had been released from the dark, cold dungeon. Her eyes widened in shock, her lips trembling between an anxious grin and tears. For a moment, she stood frozen, not sure if this was real or just a hopeful dream.
Then, with a burst of energy, she bolted out of her room, her feet barely touching the ground as she raced through the long hallways. Her dress fluttered behind her like wings, and her breath came in quick, excited gasps. Each step echoed her rising excitement and relief. All she could think about was finally wrapping her arms around her mother, feeling her warmth and knowing she was free.