Chapter 432: The Women Bonding
However Inside the Mansion, Thalia sat on a cushioned bench inside one of the grand guest rooms, the scent of sweet jasmine oils and warm pastries floating in the air.
The tension from the journey, from the forest, from battle—all of it melted slowly as the women surrounded her like sunlight breaking through storm clouds.
"You’re really here," Sarah whispered, her hand brushing Thalia’s tangled hair. "We missed you so much, you stubborn thing."
Jean had her hands on Thalia’s cheeks, gently squishing them with a pout. "How are you real? We thought—"
"Don’t finish that sentence," Emma said, voice trembling even as she tried to sound composed. "She’s here, that’s what matters."
"Like they said distance make the heart grow fonder," Sarah said.
"Yes yes, Thalia welcome," Salviana, regal even in her relaxed state, stood by the open wardrobe pulling out silks and dresses. "Now," she announced, turning with a mischievous sparkle in her eyes, "Can we dress Thalia to look like one of us"
"Ooooh, can she?" Jean and Emma chorused, clapping their hands like girls at a sleepover.
"This is honestly just dress-up with added stakes," Sarah said, grinning as she helped unfold a flowing lavender gown with delicate embroidery.
Thalia laughed, the sound bubbling up and catching her by surprise. Her eyes glistened, and she blinked quickly, but it was too late.
The tears fell anyway.