Mara’s mornings were always the same—coffee brewing, the low hum of the refrigerator, and the muted chatter of the television in the corner. She liked the comfort of it, the predictable rhythm. In a world that had once spun too fast for her, routine had become her safe harbor.
She carried her mug to the couch, curling her legs under a faded quilt. Outside, the winter rain traced lazy rivers down the window. The news was on, a distant voice filling the quiet. She wasn’t really listening—until the anchor’s tone shifted, brightening with the thrill of breaking discovery.
“A rare piece of jewelry,” the anchor announced, “one of only three known to exist, was spotted last night at a charity gala.” Mara’s eyes flicked up lazily, expecting something glittering and gaudy. The screen changed to a close-up of a silver chain with a deep blue stone.