How a Dying Woman Rewrote Her Epilogue

"Jarrod, that was quick thinking-you nearly saved Sylvie from getting burned," Maurice said, letting out a relieved sigh as he noticed the close call.

Everyone's attention turned to Sylvie.

She had indeed been standing quite close to the oven tray just moments ago.

Seeing everyone's concern, Sylvie offered a graceful smile. "Don't worry, I'm perfectly fine."

Octavia, the one who'd started all the commotion, rushed over in a panic, cradling Sylvie's hands with guilt. "I'm so sorry, I didn't mean to! I nearly gave myself a heart attack!"

Sylvie ruffled her hair affectionately. "It's alright, really."

Elodie curled her fingers into her palm.

Suddenly, she realized she'd been overthinking things.

Jarrod's reaction hadn't been out of worry for her at all. He'd only panicked because Sylvie was almost hurt-he hadn't even hesitated to put himself at risk.

Only Sylvie, it seemed, could rattle the calm, collected Jarrod.

Joseph, after making sure Elodie was unscathed, finally settled back in his seat.

Freya glanced over, concern etched on her face. "Are you sure you're okay? Let me see your hand."

Elodie shook her head.

Across from her, Alexander's expression shifted subtly as he glanced at Jarrod, who was still shielding Sylvie. "Mr. Silverstein, didn't you see that Elodie was nearly burned too?"

Elodie had been standing even closer to the tray than Sylvie.

been in any danger

turn his gaze in Elodie's

and steady, "Is

heart clenched, her breath catching in

hadn't even spared her

indifferent, completely unconcerned whether she was hurt or

he truly cared about

at a loss

last three years had

apathy toward her was

people on this side of the campsite, divided

she walked over to her tent and

herself to enjoy the rare peace

care less about what Jarrod and the others

time to time,

Elodie a hand warmer and

she was unfailingly

My tent's right next to yours-don't

small, genuine smile. "Thank

left, Joseph

on starting a conversation, but it felt rude to ignore him. "You're

ended up here. He hesitated. "It's supposed to get colder tonight. Make sure you stay

"...Alright."

lately, though she couldn't put her

to speak to

he'd just been dismissive

seemed on