Chapter 453

The faint light of dawn scattered across the horizon, spilling carelessly over the sea and beach like strokes of watercolour on a canvas. The brilliant colours of sunrise stretched across the waves, painting the world in hues of gold and rose. Eleanor strolled leisurely along the shore, her expression calm, almost indifferent. The caress of the sea breeze was no longer unfamiliar to her—she had grown used to its touch, just as she had grown accustomed to life on Pear Blossom Island. Her long, jet-black hair swayed gently, tousled by the wind, forming soft, messy curves against her shoulders. But then— Something caught her eye. Her steps slowed, and her gaze sharpened, her relaxed demeanour vanishing in an instant. A figure lay motionless at the point where the waves met the sand. From the shape, it was a woman. She was sprawled on the shore, drenched, her features blurred and indistinct. The relentless tide washed over her in slow, rhythmic movements, but she did not stir. Her eyes wer