Chapter 39 - The Whispering Wind
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Autumn returned to the valley two years later.
The leaves turned brilliant shades of red and gold, falling softly onto the cobblestone terrace of my hillside home. The valley was peaceful, bathed in the warm sunset light.
I sat on the veranda, wrapped in a comfortable knitted sweater, holding a warm mug of tea.
Upstairs, Nicolás was playing his guitar, the soft, beautiful melody filtering down through the open windows. He was fourteen now, tall, handsome, and filled with a quiet strength that made my heart swell with pride every single day.
Mateo walked out onto the veranda, carrying a tray with fresh fruit and a newspaper.
"It's a quiet evening, Elena," Mateo remarked, pouring himself a glass of water. "The foundation's annual gala is fully booked for next month."
"Everything is running smoothly, Mateo," I smiled, looking out over the mountains. "For the first time in my life, I feel completely at peace."
"You earned it," Mateo said warmly. "You fought monsters and won."
A soft, cool breeze swept through the veranda, carrying the scent of pine and fresh earth. The wind chimes hanging from the porch roof jingled softly, a peaceful, rhythmic sound.
My phone, resting on the wooden table beside my tea mug, vibrated once.
May you like
I picked it up casually, expecting a text from the foundation staff or Nicolás's school teacher.
The screen displayed a message from an unknown, unlisted number.
