The Gilded Cage
Her thin, pale fingers reached behind her neck and unclasped a silver chain, revealing a polished emerald pendant.
It was a rich green, smooth and warm against my skin, carrying a quiet, reassuring glow.
With trembling hands, she fastened the chain around my neck.
"This pendant was given to me by your grandmother, a blessing for a lifetime of peace.
"I'm giving it to you now. I don’t wish for you to be rich or powerful—only to live a safe and peaceful life."
There was sorrow in her gaze—the kind only a mother would have in her final moments, knowing she was about to leave her child behind.