CHAPTER THIRTY SIX – REPAIRING OLD BONDS

The question, spoken with a gentle Swedish lilt, was a lifeline thrown across the churning sea of Kayla's panic. Relief washed over her, momentarily erasing the knot of tension in her stomach. She looked up to see a young woman with kind eyes and a warm smile. Her blonde hair was pulled back in a loose braid, and she wore a cozy knit sweater that seemed to radiate warmth. Kayla managed a shaky smile. "Yes, I think I am," she admitted, gesturing at the crumpled map in her hand. "This doesn't seem to be helping much." The woman chuckled, a sound like wind chimes dancing in the breeze. "Don't worry, these streets can be confusing," she said, her voice carrying a comforting cadence. "My name is Gerta. Where are you trying to get to?" Kayla explained about the penthouse and the importance of making it back in time for dinner. Gerta listened patiently, her brow furrowing slightly as Kayla mentioned the location. "Ah, I see," Gerta said, a hint of a smile playing on her lips. "That's no