A few months passed. Zoey, the girls, and Jace had finally finished their training. They were stronger now mentally, magically, and physically. Even though Zoey and Jace still weren't talking, the tension wasn't as heavy as it once was.
It was time to go.
They packed their things into the RV. Alina, Jada, and Mya each gave Julia a hug.
"Thank you for everything," Alina said.
"We couldn't have made it without you," Jada added.
"You're kinda scary but also kinda amazing," Mya laughed.
Julia smiled. "You're all ready now. Just remember who you are and what you're fighting for."
Riven stood beside Julia, watching Zoey quietly. When she came up to him, he pulled her into a tight hug.
"Don't forget," he said softly, "your fire is yours. Control it. Own it."
Zoey hugged him back. "I won't. Thank you, Riven. For helping me."
He hesitated, then let her go. They climbed into the RV, and soon they were back on the road.
The girls chatted and laughed in the front, passing around snacks and playing music. But Jace sat in the back, silent, staring out the window. He hadn't said a word since they left.
"Zoey," Mya whispered, pulling her aside, "can I talk to you real quick?"
"Yeah. What's up?" Zoey asked.
Mya looked toward the back. "You need to talk to him… Jace. He's losing it. I know he hurt you, but he still loves you. He's not okay."
Zoey glanced at him, then gave a small nod. "Okay."
She walked to the back lounge of the RV and paused when she saw him.
Jace was sitting on the couch, a bottle in his hand, eyes low.
"What are you doing?" Zoey asked.
"What's it look like?" he muttered.
Zoey walked over and took the bottle from his hand, setting it aside. She sat next to him in silence before slowly wrapping her arms around him.
Jace didn't speak. He just leaned into her and cried.
"I forgive you," Zoey whispered.
He looked at her, like he didn't believe it.
Then Zoey kissed him soft and real. The kind of kiss that said I see your pain, but I still care.