38. Stella

Angeline

When I saw her, I ran closer. It was stronger than me. Relief and sadness overwhelmed me, bringing tears to my eyes.

“Stella!” The strangled exclamation came from deep inside of me, attracting her little eyes to me.

She was safe; she was fine. But seeing her hurt my heart. It was a reminder that I failed her — I wasn’t there for her. She was so little, but didn’t have anyone to protect her, since Julia wasn’t any better than a were-snake! My poor sweet pup! Bitting the hell out of my lips, I held back my tears.

“Hello,” I said, crouching down. Of course, she wouldn’t recognize me and it hurt even more. She was in front of an old wooden playhouse, with the pink tea-set I gave her for her latest birthday.

“Hello, lady,” she replied, giving me a tiny pink cup.

“Do you like banana tea?” she giggled, and I nodded. Then she poured some imaginary tea in my cup.

Sweet pup! A tear rolled down my cheek; I couldn’t contain it anymore.

“Don’t be sad, Angeline. She is safe and sou