As Emma dragged Jasper away, Sophia watched with a mixture of sadness and resignation. She felt helpless, but it was no surprise, given the tension that had been building between them for a long time.
Emma deposited Jasper in a chair at one corner of the garden, her movements brusque. Then, she turned to face Sophia, her expression a mask of annoyance.
"So, what are you doing here?" Emma asked, her voice clipped and impatient. She crossed her arms over her chest, her eyes narrowing slightly as she waited for Sophia's response.
Sophia felt a pang of hurt at Emma's tone, but she tried to push it aside. She knew that Emma was still angry with her, and she didn't blame her. But she wished that Emma could understand her perspective, just a little.
"I came to say goodbye," Sophia said softly, her eyes locked on Emma's. "I didn't know how long I'd be gone, and I wanted to see you all before I leave."
Emma's expression didn't change, but Sophia thought she saw a flicker of emotion in her eyes. For a moment, Sophia wondered if Emma might actually miss her, despite their differences. But then Emma's mask slipped back into place, and she turned away, dismissing Sophia's words.
...
Sophia spent the next hour chatting with her younger sisters, trying to cherish every moment they had left together. They talked about everything and nothing, sharing laughter and tears as they reminisced about their childhood memories.
As the sun began to set, casting a warm orange glow over the palace, Sophia knew it was time to say her final goodbyes. She hugged each of her sisters tightly, trying to hold back tears.
"I'll miss you all so much," Sophia whispered, her voice trembling.
Her sisters nodded, their eyes welling up with tears. "We'll miss you too, Sophia," they chorused.
With a heavy heart, Sophia turned and made her way back to her room. As she entered, she was greeted by the sight of her packed bags and the neatly arranged belongings. Emma's words echoed in her mind: "You're leaving tomorrow."
Sophia felt a lump form in her throat as she approached her bed. She sat down on the edge, running her hand over the soft blankets. This was it – her last night in the palace.
As she lay back on the bed, Sophia couldn't help but wonder what the future held. Would she ever return to the palace, or was this truly goodbye?