Chapter 35

• JASMINE
• I sat still, looking at her without saying a word. Her eyes revealed a mix of fear and dread, which alarmed me. It was the first time since we met that I saw her in such a state. She seemed scared, uncertain, and exhausted. It felt like she was a different person standing in front of me. I had been reflecting on how she brought a fresh sense of hope into my life, and now that hope was flickering weakly before my eyes.
• Until now, she had been the pillar I relied on and drew strength from. Her resilience inspired me to keep trying. But now, it seemed like that dream was crumbling away, just like Eleanor herself.