1

Nature wraps around me like a balm. Carefully trimmed paths, benches, flowerbeds. It’s beautiful.

The sound of water draws me farther until I reach a courtyard and a hidden fountain, veiled by ivy.

Two benches. Shade. Quiet.

I approach the fountain. The statue in the center—cherubs clinging to a woman’s flowing dress—makes my chest ache. Her expression is soft. Loving.

It’s strange—this statue, carved from stone, radiates more affection than I’ve ever known.

It hurts.

But for the first time, I feel something close to peace