Alison's POV For the first time in weeks, my phone felt like a harmless distraction instead of a looming portal to chaos as Kendrick's recent disturbing calls had been chaotic moments for me. I lay sprawled across the bed, scrolling aimlessly through my feed, laughing quietly at mundane memes and inspirational posts I knew I’d never apply to my life. A peaceful silence wrapped around me, thick and unbroken, a far cry from the usual tension that hung in the air. Breakfast had been peaceful, dinner the same. Even Katherine had seemed... dare I say it, amicable. I couldn't ignore how Katherine's usual air of disdain had softened. Last night, she’d actually complimented my dress. I still wasn’t sure if she meant it or if it was some elaborate game to lure me into a false sense of security. K

