As the days passed in Tangier, I focused on preparing for our journey to the Sous region, gathering supplies, and trying to build connections that might help us survive in a place known for its distrust of outsiders. Amidst all the uncertainty, we received the first piece of good news in a long time—Lily was pregnant. It was a glimmer of hope, a small light in the darkness we found ourselves in. Despite everything, the thought of a new life joining our family gave us something to look forward to, even as the future remained uncertain.
A week later, a message arrived from Chara, and the contents crushed what little hope I had been clinging to. The chance of Eric being pardoned was now almost non-existent. Chara told me that some officers were doing what they could to delay his execution, but the pressure from Abdul Malik's influence was too great. My heart sank as I read the letter, the weight of the situation pressing down on me harder than ever. Eric, who had always been so strong and fearless, now faced a fate that seemed unavoidable.
I made the difficult decision to hide the news from Lily. She didn't need the added stress, especially not in her condition. I had to be the strong one now, even though I was just a child myself. I couldn't let her see the despair I felt or the fear that gnawed at me every time I thought of Eric. I had to be her anchor, the steady presence she needed, and I couldn't let my emotions get in the way.
Even though in this world, I am still a 12-year-old child, I knew I had to step up. Eric had always been there for us, protecting us and making sure we were safe, even though he was younger than me. If he could face the dangers that came our way without hesitation, then I could do the same for the family we had left.
I made a resolve that day: I would protect whatever was left of our family in this world. No matter how daunting the path ahead seemed, I would not falter. I would find a way to keep us safe, to give us a chance at a new life, and to ensure that Eric's sacrifice would not be in vain. Even in the face of despair, I would carry on, for the sake of my family and the future we still hoped to build together.