MAXINE

“Zel!” I rushed forward.

The moment she stood up, I enveloped her in a tight hug. I held her close, feeling tears prick at the corners of my eyes.

“I’ve missed you so much,” I whispered, as I pulled away to get a good look at her.

She was wearing a simple dress. And she looked thinner. I felt a pang of guilt. My fault. Her eyes were bright and they were full of life. She hadn't given up hope yet.

“I missed you too,” Zel replied. “I thought, I wasn’t sure if ...