Étoile Winterstorm looked like she had all the time in the world. She looked amazing as usual in a short black dress, a blue wool coat open over the top with a white scarf tossed casually around her neck. However, I’d had a poor night’s sleep as I woke up every other hour wondering how I could help Chyler and if she was okay. My morning grouchiness was quashed as soon as I saw her, and replaced with wary delight as I opened the door. “Hello, Stella,” she said softly, barely turning her head as I stepped out. “Hey.” I smiled tentatively, hanging back a bit until Étoile crossed the small space between us and hugged me warmly. She held the tops of my arms in her hands as she looked at me, a flash of anger briefly crossing her face. “Do you know how long it took me to find you?” she asked. “I’m guessing six months,” I replied, somewhat facetiously. “Was it you who left me the package?” Étoile nodded. “I thought a peace offering might pave the way before I came to see you.”
