The silence in the room had settled like dust. For a while, Lydia remained there, curled into herself on the edge of the bed, staring out at nothing. Her eyes were dry now. The ache in her chest hadn't gone, but it had dulled into something quieter… something she could hold without falling apart.
She let out a small breath and whispered to no one, "I have to let go."
Her voice sounded foreign. Hollow, but certain. She slowly stood, brushing her hair away from her face, then reached for the bell on the side table and rang it gently.
Within moments, her maid came in with careful steps, as if unsure what state she'd find her in. But Lydia only gave a small nod.
"Help me get dressed," she said softly. "I want to take a walk."
