Elena lived to 94—a long, full human life.
When she passed, surrounded by family, Maya held her hand until the end.
"I'll find you," Elena whispered. "Next life. Somehow."
"I'll be waiting."
She smiled. Closed her eyes. And was gone.
The community mourned with Maya—held her, fed her, reminded her she wasn't alone.
"It hurts," Maya admitted to Glad. "So much."
"Yes. It always will. But the love remains. That's what carries us."
"How do you know?"
"Anino. Lilith. Everyone I've lost. They're still here." Glad touched her heart. "In here. Always."
Maya nodded slowly.
The pain wouldn't fade quickly.
But the love wouldn't either.