A Step Closer

Lyra’s heart tightened at the vulnerability in Bianca’s voice. For the first time, the formidable woman before her seemed less a matriarch and more… human. She nodded gently, taking a tentative step forward, ready to bridge the gap that years of absence had carved between them.

She reached out and gently placed her hand over hers, offering a soft, reassuring smile. “I’d love to.”

Her eyes then f