**Lysander**

I watch Gaia walk away, her back straight, her head high.

So different from the girl who used to flinch at raised voices.

'She's changing,' I realize. 'Growing stronger. Without me.'

The thought should make me happy.

Instead, it fills me with regret.

"Lysander?" Chloe tugs on my arm. "Are you listening?"

I turn to her. Really look at her.

The sweet expression. The ...