Maelis POV

I couldn't wrap my head around any of the things happening right now.

Despite my condition, being tightly bound to a cold, metal chair, all of this felt like a terrible, twisted dream. One I will do anything to not relive anymore.

“I know, right?” Mira answered, her high heels clicking against the floor as she walked forward.

Did I speak out loud?

“You know, we would've made quite the perfect step-mother and step-daughter if you hadn't been such a stubborn fish bone in my throat,” she sneered, crossing her arms.

“But why?” I couldn't help but ask, my voice raspy. “Why do you hate me so much?...