Eckhart stood still for a moment, and Vivianne thought he was actually going to stay. The second that lasted forever was his wordless apology. She was thrown back two years to when her fight with his sister had shattered their relationship.
Vivianne watched Eckhart disappear and felt a fiery sensation grow to be a hot ball of lead in her chest. He can't leave me, she thought, her breathing rapid and unsteady. Melissa's going to kill him. I can't let that happen. The girl sank to her knees, clutching her hair in her fists to just try to think straight with her eyes watering.
Her eyes opened, and she raised her head with her lips parted slightly. She's my link.
Regaining her composure, Vivianne wiped her eyes and took a few deep breaths to calm her nerves, not that it mattered. She faded from the library's mirror, searching for the mirror that she had only appeared in once before and never expected to visit again.
Seeing the scarcely decorated room, Vivianne felt a warmth and familiarity wash over her. She didn't want to feel at home, but something about being there brought back the feelings of how close she and Hildegarde once were. Then again, she knew that the chances of this meeting going well were pretty low... Pink pillows on the couch, chemistry set in the corner... It seemed like nothing had changed. Not even the woman in the pink dress yet to look at the mirror.
"Hildegarde," Vivianne said softly, though her tone reflected her strength. "We need to talk about Eckhart."