Chapter 2: A silent vow
Anne found herself floating in clouds. The sky stretched endlessly in every direction, painted in pale gold and ivory hues. It was peaceful and surreal—like a dream.
The ache in her body was gone, replaced by a strange lightness. She looked around in awe. "Am I dead?"
"Anne." A voice floated toward her from behind.
Anne turned. A woman stood there, radiant and ethereal, draped in a flowing white gown that shimmered like moonlight. Her face was serene, eyes warm with affection.
"Who are you?"
The woman only smiled.
Anne's gaze swept across the endless expanse of clouds. "Where am I? What is this place?" She gazed back at her. "Can I stay with you?"
The woman stepped closer. "My child, you can't be here. You have to go back."
Anne shook her head. "I don't want to go back. No one cares about me. Everyone is cruel. That world is full of malice and betrayal. Let me stay here with you. Please."
The woman's smile never faltered. She stroked Anne's hair. "You have to live for yourself. Find your happiness." She stepped back a little and then shoved her down.
Anne stumbled, heart lurching in terror. "No, don't leave me," she cried, arms flailing as an invisible force yanked her downward.