ANNA’S POV

Monday! The day whose arrival I feared, is finally here.

The sequence of dreams had me thinking that I had a fever. I do a routine check before I begin the early morning clean-up rituals. I confirm that I am well, not ill, and sound after a minute of staring at myself in the mirror, then I hurry into the shower.

I complete the post-shower clean-up phase at once, save for the final step; dressing up.

I have to be intentional about the dress that in wear for my return to the Gate’s. I want a dress that will command “wow’s” without exposing my body inappropriately. The dress...