However Inside the Mansion, Thalia sat on a cushioned bench inside one of the grand guest rooms, the scent of sweet jasmine oils and warm pastries floating in the air.
The tension from the journey, from the forest, from battle—all of it melted slowly as the women surrounded her like sunlight breaking through storm clouds.
"You're really here," Sarah whispered, her hand brushing Thalia's tangled hair. "We missed you so much, you stubborn thing."
Jean had her hands on Thalia's cheeks, gently squishing them with a pout. "How are you real? We thought—"
"Don't finish that sentence," Emma said, voice trembling even as she tried to sound composed. "She's here, that's what matters."
"Like they said distance make the heart grow fonder," Sarah said.
