White Swan | Cullen Boys

The persistent, gentle patter of rain against the windowpane was the first thing Alleia Swan registered, a familiar lullaby that had always signaled 'home.' Her eyes fluttered open, adjusting to the muted grey light filtering through the thick Forks canopy. It was an overcast morning, as most were here, yet a sense of profound contentment settled over her.

Stretching languidly, Alleia took in the room. The familiar scent of pine and damp earth clung to the air, comforting and real. Her unpacked suitcase sat innocently by the dresser, a testament to her recent arrival. After years of longing, she was finally here, back in Charlie's quiet, unassuming house.

A faint clatter from downstairs signaled Charlie was already up, probably puttering in the kitchen. A small smile touched Alleia's lips. This was it. No more temporary visits, no more goodbyes. Forks, her true home, was finally letting her stay.

With a newfound lightness in her step, she rose from the bed, the cool wooden floor a welcome sensation beneath her bare feet. Today was the day. Forks High School. A new chapter, a fresh start, and hopefully, the answers she unconsciously sought.