Columbine

The cold wind of Nod Krai softened that day as if even the earth knew it wasn't the time for harshness. On the outskirts of the city, where the fields were tinged with white and pale blue, a clearing had been prepared with thick blankets, cushions, and a small makeshift table laden with food. Columbina sat in the center, wrapped in a light wool blanket that covered her shoulders. Her feet barely touched the ground, swaying lightly as she silently gazed at the sky. She still carried with her the weariness of confinement, of escape, of rescue… but now, for the first time, there were no invisible chains tightening around her chest. "Don't move," one of them said with a smile. "If you get up, everything will get cold." They placed a warm cup in her hands. Sweet tea, with a soft aroma that vaguely reminded her of something old and safe. Columbina tilted her head, curious, and obeyed without protest. Another of her friends knelt in front of her to adjust the blanket better, making sure that no wind could get in from any side. "You're not doing anything today," he added. "Absolutely nothing." She shuddered, as if the idea were strange… and then let out a low, almost inaudible laugh. The food was plentiful: freshly baked bread, candied fruit, traditional Nod Krai sweets, and small portions specially prepared for her. Whenever Columbina hesitated before taking something, someone patiently brought it to her, as if they feared the world would snatch her away again if they looked away. "Do you like it?" they asked when they saw her trying a dessert. Columbina nodded slowly. "It's... soft," he replied. "Like today." That was enough for them to exchange knowing, satisfied glances. Later, as the sun peeked through the light clouds, one of them sat beside her and gently rested his head on hers. Another began telling absurd, exaggerated stories, just to see her smile.

love her