Ava’s mind was still reeling from the events of the day. It was wonderful to see Carissa, to know she was safe, happy and very much in love. But all of Ava’s choices still lay ahead, threatening to shape her life into something she no longer recognized. She stood by the sliding glass door in the spacious country kitchen, watching the sun sink behind the mountains. The others sat around the kitchen table, debating strategy. Light began to fade as shadows crept across the land and a sudden motion drew her gaze to the sky. A massive bird sailed over the treetops then swooped toward the house. She shifted position, tilting her head as the bird flew nearer. Its long, powerful wings spread wide, slowing its descent as it landed on the deck’s wooden rail. The eagle hopped off the rail and the outline of its body shimmered as the shape stretched and expanded, growing longer and broader in a smooth, streaming motion. Light from the house spilled onto the deck, allowing her to witness the miraculous transformation.
