Chapter 59 The Price Of Peace

• The soft sounds of an ordinary morning filled the kitchen, the gentle bubbling sound of coffee brewing, the quiet rustle of a newspaper being turned. It was nothing special, just the kind of peaceful moment most people take for granted. But for Zara, it felt unfamiliar, almost strange. She hadn’t had a morning like this in months. Her body had finally healed the bruises had faded, the pain in her bones was gone. In its place was a new kind of strength, quiet but steady. Still, the emotional wounds lingered. The memories of that night clung to her like a shadow, always just behind her, always close. She sat at the kitchen table, hands wrapped around a warm mug, eyes on her father as he read. He didn’t say anything, and neither did she. The silence between them wasn’t uncomfortable, but it felt fragile, like something that might break if either of them spoke too soon.
• She knew she had to say it. She couldn't keep running from the truth anymore. "Dad," she began, her voice a little shaky.
• He lowered the newspaper, his eyes, still filled with a weary sadness, meeting hers. "Yes, my princess?"