Chapter 82: The Fading Picture.
17 Years Ago — Star Harbor
The gentle creak of the gate echoed faintly through the narrow lanes of Star Harbor. A soft breeze rustled the nearby jasmine shrubs as little Miles walked through the doorway of their modest home—his backpack bouncing with each eager step, his eyes bright with anticipation.
"Mom...?"His voice rang through the empty house, hopeful and curious.
No answer.
He slipped off his shoes and scurried into the hallway, his little feet tapping softly against the wooden floor. The aroma of old books, warm sunlight, and a hint of Elena’s favorite rose tea lingered in the air.
He checked the kitchen.Empty.
A small frown formed on his face. He clutched the school bag tighter in his tiny hands. He turned toward the hallway again, eyes scanning until they landed on the open door of the study.
"Mom?" he called out gently, stepping inside.
There, in the dim amber light filtering through the curtains, sat Elena Sterling. A young woman in her early twenties, still radiating a beauty shadowed by sorrow. Her head rested on her folded arms over the desk, shoulders faintly trembling.
In her hand was a faded photograph—the smiling face of Edward Sterling, her late husband. The corners of the picture were worn, as though it had been held and wept over a thousand times.
Miles crept closer, unsure but brave, and gently touched her shoulder.
"Mom..."