Bella's POV
I bobbed my head vigorously, my voice cracking as emotions overwhelmed me. "Yes, Grandmother... it's me. I'm home."
"Bella!" Ursula struggled to sit up, wrapping me in a fierce hug while tears streamed down her face uncontrollably.
We both cried until our cheeks were soaked with tears.
Once her sobbing eased, Ursula looked at me with such tenderness, repeating over and over, "Good. Now that I've seen you again, I can die content."
"Grandmother, you won't die. I won't let you," I said, my voice shaking with fierce resolve.
Ursula brushed away her tears and smiled softly.
"My dear child, I'm old now. It's just a part of life, we all must go someday."
She pulled out a handkerchief and dabbed at my wet cheeks. "There now, my dear child, don't cry. I am quite well. It's getting late, you should be going."
I could tell Ursula didn't want me to leave, but she couldn't bear the thought of me staying in this dangerous place.
