Serena (Pov)
I stood before the imposing manor, my heart pounding in my chest. The cool night air sent a shiver down my spine as I gazed up at the looming structure. This was it - the moment of truth. Silas was waiting inside, ready to poison me and extract all my secrets. I took a deep breath, trying to calm my frayed nerves.
"You can do this, Serena," I whispered to myself, clenching my fists at my sides.
The past two days had been absolute hell. Telling everyone about my plans, my deals, my deceptions - it had nearly broken me. Xavier's face when I finally confessed the secrets I shared with Ashley still haunted me. The hurt and betrayal in his eyes...
I shook my head, banishing the painful memory. I had to focus.
Glancing back at the dense forest behind me, I managed a small smile
