Chapter 5

In the Cobweb District of Astoria, sunlight filtered through the sycamore leaves, casting dappled shadows on the ancient cobblestone streets.

I sat at a café on the corner, a sketchbook open in front of me.

The tip of my pen scratched across the paper as I sketched a cat dozing on the balcony across the street.

I picked a new name for myself, Elena Lane, after my mom's family name.

I'd rented a penthouse with a studio, and from my window, I could see the spires of Central Cathedral.

The air was filled with the scent of butter and coffee,…