The snow had not stopped falling. A thin white layer coated every stone step of the courtyard stairs, muffling even the faintest sound.
Selene sat alone on the steps, her knees drawn up to her chest, head bowed. Her hood was pulled low, covering most of her face. Noel's cloak still rested on her shoulders, wrapped tightly around her small frame.
Noel spotted her from a distance as he crossed the courtyard. He hesitated for a moment, watching her in silence. Then, without a word, he approached.
Carefully, he sat down beside her on the cold stone, leaving a bit of space between them.
"How are you feeling?"
There was a pause. Then, softly, Selene answered.
"Fine. I finally said everything I had been keeping inside… Thank you."
Noel glanced at her.
"For what?"
Selene shifted slightly beneath the cloak.
