The warmth in Alexa's voice and touch seemed to slowly penetrate Natalie's fear. Gradually, Natalie unwrapped the plate from her apron, her tense shoulders relaxing.
Looking down at the plate, tears welled in Natalie's eyes. She realized how much this small, simple object meant to her—a symbol of everything she had lost, of the life that had been taken from her, and of the peace she thought she'd never regain.
Alexa gently stroked Natalie's back, offering comfort. "Mother, there's no need to worry anymore. They said this was given to us freely. No one is going to take it away."
Natalie looked at Alexa, her doubt still lingering. But Alexa smiled and shrugged as if to say, "Why would I lie?"
"If this weren't true, how could we be living in such a beautiful home?" Alexa reasoned. "They said this house was built by magicians and magical beasts. That's why it's so sturdy and was finished so quickly."
A look of relief began to soften Natalie's face.
