Every time I tried to leave here, Noel used this rough method to drag me back.

I was taken to the hospital, where Lydia lay weakly in her bed. Seeing me, a smug smile spread across her face.

My stepfather and mother stood by Lydia’s bed, their eyes filled with resentment towards me.

Noel, his face set in a grim expression, said, “Give the blood.”

“You can’t use my blood without my consent; it’s illegal.”

Noel looked questioningly at the nearby doctor.

“That’s correct,” the doctor confirmed with a nod.

“Noel, I feel so sick,” Lydia moaned.

“Let it be illegal; just save her first,” Noel said.

I was held...