Aliya’s POV

Christmas usually meant family, friends, and gifts—but my version of Christmas came with heavy planning and constantly thinking ahead to my next move.

Homes glowed with lights, sparkling trees, and soft carols—but nothing ever changed in mine. Same colors every season, same dull rhythm, and for some reason, I couldn’t bring myself to care.

For three whole months, I’d only spoken when necessary, listened like my life depended on it, and kept my mind locked on one thing—revenge. Revenge for the pain the people in my life had caused me. And now, I was almost there—I could already taste victory.

I descended the stairs and headed to the...