[ Sharon’s smile is awkward, emotional, and utterly soggy with tears. But she doesn't mind it—in fact, she loves it. She cherishes every moment, her mother’s face mirroring her own emotions. Rose's cheeks are damp, her eyes red-rimmed, making the blue of her irises stand out even more than usual. Her hair is a mess, just like Sharon loved as a kid. It’s part of why she’s still blonde to this day.

Oh my god, Rose whispers, and Sharon mouths the words back, as if a part of her still can’t believe it herself. ] We met in Trench [ Sharon begins, voice soft but brimming with excitement. She's practiced this a million different ways in her head, in her daydreams. ] Just a couple of months after you left. He's from another world. His name is Johan but he goes by his family name, Mayerling. [ Her expression softens, warms as she thinks of her fiance. The beads he uses to frame his face, the pale blue bow he always ties his hair back with. She smiles secretively. ] He's different. He's kind, and thoughtful, and deeply philosophical. Handsome. [ Her smile grows then, tips of her teeth showing, cheeks pink. ]

I didn't think I'd ever meet someone who could make me feel like I'm... [ She shakes her head, the words stuck in the back of her throat, caught on the nest of emotions in her windpipe. Special. Beautiful. Strong. She swallows, unable to finish the thought, and then clears her throat. ] I met him in Trench and we found each other again here. I don't believe in fate or anything, but...

[ But fate is what brought Rose to that orphanage outside of Silent Hill. It was fate that Rose chose Sharon. It was fate they found each other again, and again, and again. Maybe fate is real. For some special people. ]