Anezka's Pov
What will you do when it's like to exist in a state of despair, feeling as if every ounce of hope has slipped away, and then, in an unexpected moment, hear someone say that your entire reality has changed and that hope is indeed within your grasp? If I truly held on to hope all along, why was I led to believe I was nothing but empty and without purpose? Where were these words of belonging when I was desperately searching for a glimmer of light in my darkest moments?
I'm at a loss for words, unsure of how to respond. My thoughts are tangled in a thick fog, and it feels as if everything has come to a standstill. Just then, Serena tenderly cupped my cheeks in her hands, and in that moment, a wave of emotion washed over me. It dawned on me that I was quietly weeping, the tears spilling down my cheeks despite my efforts to hold them back.
A whirlwind of questions and confusion swirled in my mind, battling for attention. But the moment my eyes locked with Serena's, everything else faded away. The only thought that pierced through my turmoil was a singular, painful question: "Why did you leave me alone for 12 long years?" The weight of those years hung heavy between us, amplifying the emotions that unfolded in that fleeting gaze.
"Some truths are better left hidden and buried, my dear child," Serene began, her voice steady but heavy with emotion.
"I can only express my deepest apologies for my mistakes, even though I made them with your best interests at heart. Just know that your father and I were always cautious, guarding you from the prying eyes of darkness, even during the times you were with Alora.
Alora was entrusted with your care during our absence, but that didn't mean we were far away. We were there, watching proudly as you took your very first steps, beamed with joy at your triumph in your first drawing competition, and smiled as you twirled in your princess costume at the party. Our hearts ached with worry when we noticed your eyesight beginning to fade. We had no idea that in the mortal world, there were magical aids like glasses to help with such problems. It was nothing short of miraculous for us to witness you putting on those glasses and suddenly seeing the world clearly again.
Every moment of your life is etched in our memories, my child. We experienced all your significant milestones from the shadows of our own suffering just to ensure that you remained safe and sound." Serene spoke with quiet strength, her eyes glistening with tears that spoke of both love and sorrow.
As I listened to her voice, my gaze drifted downwards, lost in thought, envisioning all the moments she vividly recounted. I imagined how different things would have been if my loved ones had been by my side during each of those cherished instances. A heavy sense of melancholy washed over me as I recalled the countless times I had convinced myself of my misfortune, only to awaken to a deeper realization: I was even more ill-fated to have my family close yet so far from my reach leaving me with a profound sense of longing and loss.
Mikael rose from his chair, his movements calm yet purposeful, and stepped in front of us. With gentle warmth, he placed his palms on my head, offering a reassuring touch. At the same time, he tenderly wiped the tears from Serena's cheeks, his expression filled with concern.
"I don't like my home being drenched in heavy rain. You both are my home, so please don't cry," he whispered softly, trying to comfort us in our moment of sorrow. A swirl of emotions flooded through me—confusion, uncertainty, and the weight of what Serena had just revealed hung heavily in the air. I felt lost, not knowing what words to offer or how to respond. Yet, amidst the turmoil, one thing shone through clearly: the warmth of love and affection enveloped us.
Mikael and Serena's caring actions made me feel that everything was aligning as it should, that this was precisely the moment I needed. Instead of pushing against the tide of emotion, I chose to embrace this connection, vowing to be the best daughter I could for my parents. I realized that I must honor their sacrifices and strive to understand them, believing firmly that they had genuine reasons for their choices. In that moment, I felt a renewed sense of purpose and the strength to face whatever lay ahead.
I embraced both of them, pulling them close as a wave of emotion washed over me. My voice trembled slightly as I spoke, "I'm not sure what led to your decisions, but I have faith that when the time is right, you will open up to me about it. I trust that you'll stand by my side and shield me from whatever difficulties may arise."
As soon as the words left my lips, I caught a glimpse of Serena's and Mikael's faces lighting up with a renewed sense of hope. The tension etched in their foreheads began to fade, replaced by joyful expressions that made my heart swell with happiness.
Their bright smiles filled the room with warmth, and in that moment, everything felt right. We embraced tightly, our arms wrapping around one another as we reveled in this precious moment of family connection. It was a feeling I had longed for and never truly experienced.
When we finally stepped back from our heartfelt hug, a wave of uncertainty washed over me.
I hesitated before asking Serena softly, "Can I call you mother?" The question felt silly, yet it carried a weight of meaning that I couldn't ignore. After all, I had never known the comfort of a family before.
Serena took my hand in hers, her touch gentle and reassuring. She caressed it tenderly, her warm smile radiating love as she replied, "Of course, my child. You are our daughter, our only sunshine. You can call me mother, and Mikael your father." In that moment, I felt a sense of belonging I had always yearned for, as if I were finally finding my place in the world.
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"All that we see or seen is but a dream within a dream"
- By Edgar Allan Poe