-Madeleine-
I couldn’t believe I was out here holding a gun. I should have lowered it and handed it back, but I didn’t. Instead, there was a loud bang as some wood higher up in the tree splintered and flew everywhere. I was far from the target, probably not even hitting the right tree.
“Well, at least you hit… something,” the queen said, her tone encouraging.
I looked at her and smiled. She returned the gesture, and in that moment, I felt a genuine connection with her. Then Kate wrapped her arm around my shoulders, bringing me down to her height.
“Tell me, sis, doesn’t that feel empowering?” she asked.
“Shooting a tree?” I teased.
She rolled her eyes but laughed and nodded. I had to admit, there was something undeniably empowering about it.
“Want to go again?” the queen inquired.
