As Viola stepped into the home of her dear friend, Ms Van, the door creaked softly behind her, letting in a cool evening breeze. The sitting room was warm and cosy, lit by the gentle glow of a crackling fire in the fireplace. A faint aroma of coffee and dried flowers hung in the air, a familiar comfort that brought a small smile to Viola's lips.
Ms Van looked up from her chair by the fire, her eyes widening in surprise. "Viola!" she exclaimed, her voice trembling with emotion. She rose to her feet, and in a slow but deliberate movement, crossed the room to embrace her friend. "How did you get out? It's been two weeks! Oh, thank the moon you're safe! I prayed every night for your release."
Viola returned the hug, her grip tight but fleeting. "The alpha let me out," she said softly, her voice tinged with a sadness that didn't go unnoticed. She pulled back, her hands resting on Julia's shoulders as she studied her friend's face. "How is Serene? Is she…?"
