After the interview, Glad retreated fully to cottage life.
No more appearances. No more statements. Just garden, family, peace.
Maya visited weekly, bringing news and laughter. Ariel never left. The Watcher and Gahom were constant companions.
"Is this what forever feels like?" Glad asked one evening, watching sunset paint the garden.
"Feels like this," Ariel agreed. "Quiet. Full. Enough."
"I never thought I'd have enough."
"Now you do."
She leaned against him, content.
The garden glowed.
The cats purred.
Forever stretched before them—not endless, just enough.