That night, Jessamyn arranged a feast that carried the warmth of a family gathering. The air was filled with laughter, the clinking of cutlery, and the sound of joyful conversation. Her heart swelled as she watched William, Isadora, and Bernard gathered around the table, their faces illuminated by the soft glow of candlelight.
For a moment, it felt as if the shadows of uncertainty had lifted, leaving only the simple joy of being together.
But as her gaze swept the room, it inevitably landed on the one seat that remained conspicuously empty—Jerrick's. Her chest tightened with longing and a hint of worry. She had learned from William that Jerrick had gone out, though William's knowing look hinted that he was aware of Jerrick's whereabouts but chose not to divulge it.
Jessamyn decided to let it be.
