CHAPTER FORTY – SETTLING DOWN

As the days passed, Rebecca found herself settling into a routine at the convent. The initial shock and resistance gave way to a grudging acceptance of her situation. She woke each morning to the sound of the bell, dressed in her plain attire, and made her way to the chapel for prayers. During one such morning prayer, Rebecca caught herself actually focusing on the words being recited. The familiar cadence of the prayers brought an unexpected sense of calm to her usually turbulent thoughts. "Amen," she whispered along with the others, surprised to find she meant it. Sister Margaret noticed the change in Rebecca's demeanor. After prayers, she approached the young woman with a hint of approval in her eyes. "You seem more settled today, Rebecca." Rebecca nodded, offering a small smile. "I'm trying, Sister." "Good," Sister Margaret replied. "Remember, this time is what you make of it." As Rebecca went about her daily chores, she found herself approaching tasks with a new mindset. Ins