The dream was so vivid it felt like I was awake. The air was cool, the scent of pine and earth filling my lungs as I stood in the forest clearing, bathed in the soft light of the full moon. There was a peace here that I hadn't felt in what seemed like forever. The tension that usually accompanied my waking hours had melted away, and for the first time in a long time, I felt safe.
"Aimee."
The voice was gentle, familiar, and it made my heart stutter. I turned, and there she was—my mother. Her presence felt both shocking and comforting. She stood in the clearing, her long hair flowing like a soft breeze was brushing through it, her eyes glowing with warmth and wisdom.
