Sia POV

The clatter of trays echoed through the prison dining hall, a chaotic symphony of inmates jostling for their daily ration. Mama Red stood at her usual post, overseeing the food distribution with the calm authority of someone who had earned respect, not just from the prisoners but from the staff as well. The Outcasts, however, had been growing more restless with each passing day. Their leader, Gia, stood at the front of their group, her sharp eyes fixed on Mama Red with a gleam of malice.

“We need more food,” Gia demanded, her voice cold and commanding. “You’ve been holding out on us, Red.”

Mama Red didn’t even...