The days blurred together, each one heavier than the last. Emilia sat on the edge of her bed, staring at the sunlight streaming through the window. It was taunting her, beckoning her to step outside. But the constant presence of guards at every door and the strict orders from Raymond made it clear: she wasn’t going anywhere.

Her fingers drummed against her knee as she paced the room, her bare feet brushing the soft rug. The confinement was driving her insane. She wasn’t a caged bird, and she wasn’t used to being told what to do.

With a frustrated groan, Emilia stopped at the window and looked out at the...