One day, a classmate asked whether she would ever hike again.
Layan considered the question.
“Yes,” she said.
“Aren’t you afraid?”
“Of course.”
“Then why go back?”
She smiled.
“Because I don’t want fear to make every decision for me.”
The Wooden Owl
Almost a year after her rescue, Layan returned to the mountain with her father.
The journey was carefully planned.
They traveled in daylight, remained on established paths, and arranged to meet an experienced local guide.
Layan had spent weeks considering whether she was ready.
She did not intend to enter the cave.
She simply wanted to see the place where her old life had ended and her new life had eventually begun.
The morning was clear.
Sunlight illuminated the rocky slopes, and a cool breeze moved through the trees.
As they approached the familiar trailhead, Layan recognized the parking area immediately.
She stopped beside the car.
For several seconds, she stared at the path.
