The sanctuary fell into complete silence.
No one dared interrupt.
The journal remained in Salvador's trembling hands as he stared at the first page. Though the ink had dried decades ago, the handwriting seemed alive, as though his father had only written the words moments earlier.
Ella quietly stepped beside him, her shoulder brushing gently against his.
She looked into his eyes before smiling softly.
"Keep reading."
Salvador nodded.
Taking a slow breath, he carefully turned the page.
The handwriting continued.
**When you were born, I believed the kingdom had finally found peace. Your mother laughed more than she ever had before, and every corner of this castle seemed brighter because of you. I often caught the servants smiling simply because they heard your laughter echo through the halls. You became the light of this family before you could even walk.**
A faint smile spread across Salvador's face.
Without realizing it, he whispered, "Mother always laughed."
