23 — Elena

I rose up from my seat and walked toward the door, my thoughts all over the place, my heart breaking. I needed some time to process this, to speak with Sarah and Richard. I was doubly sure that it was a mere misunderstanding or fight that led to Grandmother Willow's radical decision-making. It had to be it. I could fix it. Make them see reasons why they shouldn't let go of each other at this point in time.

“Elena,” Grandmother Willow's voice halted me in my tracks just as I wrapped my hand around the doorknob. “You can do whatever you want, but your efforts will be worthless at the end of the day. There's no backing away from this. Should you wish this merger to proceed, you'll have to do your part. You'll have to marry Richard, whether you like it or not. That's the only way. The ball is now in your court.”

I glanced back at her, noting the fierce determination in her hardened eyes. I nodded politely and pulled the door open, letting myself out. Her words echoed in my mind countless