CHAPTER NINETY-NINE

Irina

My heart hammered against my chest so hard I thought it would break out.

I suddenly became hot, unable to move.

My legs were trembling. It made moving difficult.

The sound of footsteps grew closer. 

Relax. Irirna, relax.

I shut my eyes and took in deep breaths. 

My body calmed a little and I used the opportunity to run.

I ran. I ran as fast and as quietly as I could back to my room.

Thank God I was barefooted. My feet made no sound on the cold stones.

I slipped inside and closed the door quietly. My heart hadn't stopped racing.

I stood with my back...