Chapter 120: Finally Free
Lily burst through the doors, lungs burning as she gasped for air. The dungeon’s stone walls felt like they were closing in, suffocating her with old memories. Her lungs felt as though they were burning, but she didn’t stop running.
Not until she reached the garden. The cool night air helped her refocus. The aromatic fragrance of flowers in bloom helped calm her nerves. Being in nature always helped. Now she just needed to remember how to breathe.
Taking in a deep breath of air, Lily looked up at the night sky. The crescent moon hung in the night sky, accompanied by a sea of stars. For the first time in forever, Lily felt like she could breathe with ease.
Her shoulders relaxed, and a small smile formed on her face.
“Lily!” Zayn’s voice echoed behind her, just a few steps behind.
She turned to see him approaching, concern etched on his face. His dark hair was slightly disheveled from chasing after her, and his eyes searched hers for any sign of distress.
Zayn wanted to approach, but he stopped a few steps short, wanting to give her space.
“I’m sorry,” He apologized, voice softer than she was accustomed to hearing, “I thought seeing him would help you, but maybe it was too soon.”
He turned away from her, running his hand through his hair as he muttered to himself, “What the hell was I thinking?”
Lily walked to him, tapping him on the shoulder.
She shook her head, hands moving quickly to sign, ‘You have nothing to apologize for. Though it was unexpected, it was what I needed. I just..”
She bit her lip, unsure of how to explain. Lily turned back and walked to the bandstand. She sat down on the steps and invited Zayn to join her, gently tapping the space next to her. Zayn obliged. The space was a little cramped, causing their shoulders to brush against each other, but neither of them minded.