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Josie finally takes a deep breath, her words hanging in the air.
Alora's smile carries a touch of sadness as she reaches out, gently intertwining her fingers with Josie's. "You're welcome to stay here as long as you need," Karina chimes in, nodding in agreement.
"Are you certain? I don't want to impose," Josephine expresses, her concern evident. She doesn't want to impose herself on them.
"You won't be imposing. We genuinely want you here, plus you like tarot cards that's all that matters," Karina reassures her, her eyes warm.
"Thank you, both of you," Josie gratefully responds. Alora's smile lingers before she offers to guide Josie to her room.
After retrieving her trunk, they walk down a hallway, and Alora opens a door to reveal Josie's new space. The sage green walls adorned with hand-painted flowers welcome her, and a variety of plants add vibrant bursts of color. The bed is cozily nestled beside a window.
"Thank you, Alora," Josie expresses her gratitude once more. Alora waves her hand dismissively. "No need to thank me, dear. The bathroom is right through that door," she points towards a corner.
"Feel free to help yourself to any food or drinks you might need. We'll likely turn in soon, but we'll keep you informed," Alora says, offering a final smile before departing and softly closing the door.
Setting her trunk down, Josephine opens it, aware of the need to wash away the blood and tend to her injured face.
~~~
Josie deftly braids her damp hair, her reflection staring back at her in the mirror. A heavy sigh escapes her lips, carrying a sense of detachment that seems to envelop her. Emotions feel distant, as if locked away.
A soft, rhythmic knock echoes from the door, drawing Josie's attention. She rises and crosses the room to answer. Karina stands on the other side, a warm smile gracing her lips as she hands over a set of medical supplies. "I understand that you and Alora are witches, but just in case," she playfully winks before departing.
Gently closing the door, Josephine returns to the mirror, her gaze settling on the cut. A conflicted feeling tugs at her. There's an almost perverse desire for a scar to remain, a tangible reminder etched onto her skin.
With careful attention, Josie cleans the wound, opting to forego any healing applications. She wants this mark to endure, a testament to her experiences.
A small stuffed animal, a gift from her mother Euphemia, finds its way into her hands. Its presence brings a wave of emotion that threatens to spill over into tears. Josie manages to hold them back, if only barely.
After tenderly returning the stuffed animals to her trunk, Josephine moves to the bed and lies down. Her head meets the pillow, and her gaze fixates blankly on the wall before her.
Everything feels wrong.
~~~~~
HERES ALORA
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HERES KARINA
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