CHAPTER ONE HUNDRED AND EIGHT - THE ICY DIVIDE

Freya paced the room for a moment, her brow furrowed in thought. Finally, she came to a stop in front of Anna, her posture softening almost imperceptibly. "I owe you an apology," Freya said, the words seemingly difficult for her to voice. "I have been... unfair in my treatment of you." Anna blinked in surprise, unsure if she had heard correctly. Freya continued, her voice low and measured. "Your situation here is not an easy one. I know that. And while it is important for you to learn our ways, perhaps I have been too... zealous in my methods." Anna felt a small spark of hope kindle in her chest. "I'm trying my best, Mrs. Ulfheim," she said softly. "I want to learn, to be a part of this household." Freya nodded, a ghost of a smile flickering across her face. "I can see that now. Your perseverance, despite the challenges, is... admirable." The older woman sighed, seeming to choose her next words carefully. "Ulfheim is not an easy place to adapt to, even for those born into our wor