The desolation and loneliness were gone, and the place had suddenly transformed back into the vibrant Mitchell's estate.
Scarlett wiped away her tears, smiling as she took Winters's arm, "Let's go, Winters, your room hasn't been touched. I've cleaned it every day for you."
Winters felt an odd sense of familiarity, as if he were back in Sea Blue's house, and for a fleeting moment, Scarlett's face morphed into Ella's.
So he was led upstairs, returning to the little nest he had previously lodged in at Mitchell's.
Nothing had changed, the setting sun cast its glow through the west-facing window, filling the room. The same bed, the same twill bedding, the same oak table.
Winters stood at the doorway, hesitant to step inside.
Ella pushed him in, laughing as she said, "Rest for a bit. I'll call you when the water is hot, you need a good bath. You're all sore and need a good scrub."
After speaking, Ella closed the door behind her.
Winters shuffled to the bed and sat down in a daze.