Chapter 87 LeÍA

• Leía cautiously ventured into the forest, covered by a dense blanket of snow that muffled her steps. The towering pines and oaks seemed like silent sentinels, adorned with soft frosty crowns that sparkled in the faint light of dusk. The chilly air tinted her cheeks crimson and inflamed her chest with every breath. A torrent of conflicting emotions flooded her mind. Her heart still raced, and a warm happiness welled in her chest as she recalled how Enril had defended her against those cruel blonde girls who used to mock her. Since childhood, hurtful comments about her dusky skin had chipped away at her self-esteem. His eventual support filled her with deep gratitude.
• She timidly followed Enril, feeling both fear and hope amidst the branches of the trees, from which hung long icicle beards, gently tinkling as if they were bells announcing her presence. Beneath the snow, mischievous sprouts of life peeked out, whispering promises of the upcoming spring. A mystical breeze swept through the forest, carrying with it snowflakes that delicately settled on her dark hair. Leía felt like an intruder in that enchanted realm, but the growing hope within her gave her the courage to press on, following the footsteps of the young man she loved so dearly.
• However, a certain bitterness also invaded her as she recalled how Enril used to constantly praise the blonde beauty of others, hurting her pride. That old thorn was the root of many of their childhood fights. But now, seeing him defend her, a part of her wondered if he was finally changing. As she ventured deeper into the thicket following his steps, Leía felt her heart race faster and faster. Was she willing to give him a chance? Or had he only defended her out of pity? A small voice inside her suggested that perhaps, just perhaps, he was now seeing her, her true essence, not just her appearance. And that thought filled her with hope.