She had no illusions about what this meant. She had already known from the start that she was here for a reason—to heal, to do what she could for those who needed her. Yet, when it came to Marcus, something deeper had taken root in her heart, something she couldn’t ignore. The memory of that passionate night in the kitchen burned in her mind, and she knew she wanted more, wanted to finish what they’d started.
“Why did ye have to kiss me?” she whispered.
Annabeth found herself standing before Marcus’ door. Her hand hovered above the wood, trembling ever so slightly. She wanted him, wanted him to open the door and pull her into his arms once more. But doubt crept in, and the weight of the world on her shoulders pushed her to let her hand fall and turn away.
With a heavy sigh, Annabeth slowly walked back down the hallway, her footsteps echoing in the silence. She didn’t look back, even though every part of her screamed to do so. The urge to stay with him, to finish what they had begun, was stronger than she wanted to admit, but she couldn’t.
If he wants me, he will come to me.
Once back in her room, she began to pack the few belongings she had. The simple act of folding her things brought a sense of finality. Her heart ached with each movement, but she pressed on. She knew it was what she had to do, even if it felt like tearing a piece of herself away.
As she packed, her mind wandered back to Marcus again, and a quiet resolve filled her. She wouldn’t tell him she was leaving. No, it would be easier this way—no goodbyes, no questions. She couldn’t bear to see the disappointment in his eyes, not when she didn’t know if he truly cared.
Annabeth was folding the last of her belongings, neatly arranging them into her bag, when there came a knock at the door. She quickly rose to her feet, smoothing the wrinkles from her gown, hoping it was Marcus. She pinched her cheeks for color and pressed her lips.
“Come in,” she said.
The door opened slowly, and Lady Elizabeth stepped inside with a soft smile on her face. Annabeth curtsied and offered her a polite nod as the Lady approached.
“Annabeth,” Lady Elizabeth began, her voice warm, “I just wanted to thank ye for all yer help with the healin’. The people here are most grateful.”
Annabeth lowered her gaze modestly, but a flicker of pride crossed her face. “’Twas me pleasure, Lady Elizabeth,” she replied softly.
“I see ye are packin’ yer items?"
“Aye, ’tis time I return to me maither. I’ve taught Elena how to make the tincture for Leon’s ailment,” Annabeth continued. “She’s a quick learner, and I’m sure she’ll do well.”
Lady Elizabeth nodded in approval though a hint of concern flashed in her eyes. “I’m sure she’ll be a fine healer, thanks to yer guidance.”
“I’ll be leavin’ soon,” she said with a quiet sigh, “but I need to arrange transport back to me village.” The words felt heavy on her tongue, like a burden she didn’t want to bear, but she spoke them anyway. “I thought I should ask Marcus?—”
Lady Elizabeth stepped closer, her expression sympathetic. “Marcus is tied up with the McArthur situation at the moment,” she explained, her voice soft but firm. “He’s far too busy to be bothered with transport arrangements, so I’ll see to it meself.”
Annabeth’s shoulders sagged slightly. “Thank ye, Lady Elizabeth. I appreciate it,” she said, grateful for the kindness.
But I hoped to see him one more time.
“I’ll make sure everythin’ is arranged as soon as possible,” Lady Elizabeth reassured her. “And I do hope ye’ll nae forget the moments ye’ve spend here.”
Annabeth smiled faintly though the sadness in her eyes lingered. “I’ll nae forget, Lady Elizabeth. I’ll carry these memories with me.”
As Lady Elizabeth turned to leave, Annabeth gave a small nod. “Goodbye, then,” she said softly, her heart heavy. She watched as the Lady disappeared through the door, the quiet of the room settling back over her. Alone again, Annabeth felt the weight of her decision pressing down on her.
Standing by the window, Annabeth found herself lost in thought. She wondered if Marcus even cared to see her go. He hadn’t said a word about her leaving, hadn’t even come to her to ask her to stay. It was a thought she tried to push away, but it clung to her, nonetheless.
She sighed and returned to her packing, each movement feeling like a final farewell to a place she had grown to love.
The last of her things were folded and packed neatly into her bag. She felt a pang of regret, but she buried it deep. She was doing what was best for herself, what was best for her village. There would be no turning back now.
Annabeth took one last look around her room, the castle walls that had sheltered her for so long now feeling cold and distant. With a sigh, she touched the walls. The journey ahead was uncertain, but she knew that, for now, it was the only path she could take.
There came a gentle knock at the door. She stood and walked over, wondering who it could be but hoping it was Marcus.
“Yes,” she opened the door, her voice soft yet weary. Elena entered, her face lit up with a smile though there was a trace of sadness in her eyes.
“Annabeth, will ye be comin’ down for supper?” Elena asked, her voice bright with the hope that they could spend just a little more time together.
Annabeth hesitated for a moment, glancing toward the window. “I’ll take supper in me room tonight, Elena,” she said, trying to keep her tone light. “I’ve got a few more things to tend to.”
