144

MAXINE

The morning light filtered through the window, casting a soft glow over the room. My body still ached but I felt a strange sense of calm.

Zel was gone when I woke up, and I had a feeling she was off seeking answers about her mother’s deal with the demons.

I slowly got out of bed, my muscles protesting with every movement. I wanted to stay in bed but I wanted to offer support to Zel. Surprisingly, I found Cinder in the kitchen, brewing a pot of tea. But, Zel wasn't with her.

She glanced up and smiled at me. "How are you feeling?"

"Sore," I replied, "but I'll manage. Where's Zel?"

"She went to meditate," Cinder said. "A lot seems to be going through her mind lately. I wonder if you know what it is."

I didn't know if it was my place to tell her what the problem was so, I opted to say nothing. She filled a wooden cup with some tea and passed it to me.

I took it, enjoying the delicious warmth on my fingers. "She just needs to talk to you. We should join her."

Cinder agreed, and toge