ELORA'S POV
I hadn't moved from bed since I woke up. The sun had risen and dipped behind the skyline hours ago, yet I still lay there, staring at the ceiling like it held answers to the anger and heaviness pressing on my chest.
I was supposed to be at Queens Fashion Academy today. My first official day working with Lucas. A fresh start. A step back into the world that made me feel alive. But instead of excitement, all I felt was a sick twist in my gut.
Because of her.
Maya.
I hate that she has these effects on me. That after all these years, she can still reach into me and wrap her claws around my confidence, my strength, and my will to move. I hate it even more that she didn't have to say a word to make me feel like this. Just her face—just her presence was enough.
“So
