A gentle breeze rustled the leaves overhead, and Brielle inhaled deeply, reveling in the crisp, earthy scents that filled her lungs. It was a stark contrast to the stale, oppressive air of the slave quarters, and she felt a weight lifting from her shoulders with every breath.

As the hours ticked by, Brielle's mind began to wander, replaying the harrowing events that had led her to this point. She could still feel the ghost of Darius's touch, his fingers trailing along her skin like searing brands, and a shudder rippled through her body.

"Never again," she whispered, her voice low and steely with resolve. "I'll die before I let that...