~~~Freya~~~

I’ve been carrying this heavy, fucked-up knot in my chest for weeks, but today it feels a little looser. Ryder’s been glued to my side like he knows I might shatter if he steps too far away, and honestly? It’s working. Just having him close makes the air feel lighter, like I can actually breathe without choking on rage and grief.

Samantha killed Ellie. That bitch ripped away the one person who still felt like home to me. I’m not letting that slide. Not ever. Ryder went to deal with her himself that day, but he wouldn’t tell me what went down. He came back looking tense as hell,...