Rhaella's POV.

My mom stepped closer, her hands trembling as they reached for mine.

“Rhaella…” she pleaded softly. “What did you do?”

I looked at her as my heart broke into a million pieces. "Mom…"

"Please, you're scaring me, Ella." Her voice cracked on the last word.

Michael stayed silent, but his eyes never left my face. He was waiting.

I swallowed hard against the lump in my throat.

"I…” My voice almost failed me. “I signed a nomination form.”

The silence that followed crashed into the living room heavily.

Michael straightened abruptly, disbelief flashing across his face.

“You did what?” he demanded sharply. “Rhaella, have you completely lost your...