Page 89 of Salt Between the Wolves

A faint smile appeared before fading almost immediately.

"My daughter believes I can fix every problem in the world."

The smile vanished entirely.

"And there is another on the way."

Her hand settled once more against her stomach in a gesture that was both protective and instinctive.

"I have spent years building a life that is safe."

The last word sounded strangely fragile. Safe did not mean happy or perfect, but it was still something precious, and the distinction mattered.

Eira understood it immediately.

For a moment guilt twisted through her chest. Perhaps she should never have sent the letter, or perhaps she should have continued west instead of reaching out.

"No."

The word interrupted her thoughts.

Maelin was watching her closely, as though she had guessed exactly where those thoughts had gone.

"You don't get to do that."

"What?"

"Decide for me."

The reply came instantly, and the firmness surprised both of them.

For a brief moment, Eira caught a glimpse of the younger woman hidden beneath years of caution and responsibility, the sister who had once stood between her and the consequences of every foolish decision.

A long, heavy silence followed.

Maelin looked away first, toward the hills, the distant road winding through the countryside, and the life waiting beyond it.

When she finally spoke again, the words emerged almost as a prayer.

"Gods help me."

A slow breath escaped her, followed by another, before she pushed herself to her feet.

Eira rose as well.

Neither woman spoke as they stood facing one another while the winter wind moved through the broken tower.

Finally Maelin squared her shoulders. The fear remained, as did the uncertainty, but something else had appeared beside them: resolve.

"You're coming home with me."

Eira blinked.

"Maelin—"

"No."

For the first time that day, her sister sounded every bit the older sibling Eira remembered.