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Faded Edges

Author: Sarah Ovvens
last update Last Updated: 2024-12-17 18:58:40

Both Zane and Alana turned to the picture with interest. Alana took it first, her fingers brushing against the fragile corners. She stared at it for a long moment before realization settled across her face.

“She’s our mom,” Alana said softly like saying it out loud would make it more real.

The words hung in the air, heavy and unshakable. Zane looked over her shoulder at the photo, his expression more skeptical than surprised.

“Where did you get this?” Zane asked, reaching for the picture. His tone was sharp, more demanding now.

Xavier’s face darkened. He exhaled sharply, looking away for a moment as if their question alone had hit him like a punch to the gut. His mind was a blur of frustration, disappointment, and tension he couldn’t untangle.

“I asked you where you got it,” Zane repeated, more insistent this time.

Xavier ignored the question and reached for the photo again. “Give me that,” he said, his voice rough. His hand trembled as though the picture itself burned him.

Alana hesi
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