Chapter 55

• She had always loved the art of jewelry making—it was therapeutic, a way to channel her emotions into something tangible. Each bead and metal piece told a story, intertwined like her own narrative with Damien, filled with moments of joy, heartache, and everything in between.
• As she reached for her pliers to form the final clasp, a memory surfaced unbidden. It was of Damien’s smile—charming and disarming at the same time. She remembered how he would stand close when she worked, admiring her creations and offering praise that made her feel seen. Would he appreciate this piece as much as she did? Would Esther wear it as beautifully as he had imagined? She shook her head slightly, trying to clear her thoughts. Why did she still care so much?
• The workshop was silent except for the sound of her own breathing, each inhale a reminder of her existence in this moment, away from memories of the past. As she carefully shaped the final loop, she was forced to acknowledge how complicated this project had become emotionally. It was more than merely crafting a necklace; it involved untangling feelings that were still so raw.