A Y L A
The door suddenly flew open without warning.
The sound was so sharp I flinched, stumbling back a step as my grip on the sheet tightened. The fabric dug into my palms, but I held it like a lifeline, terrified of showing even an inch more of skin.
The Mistress stepped into the chamber with the kind of cold authority that made the air drop several degrees. Her presence alone forced a chill down my spine. She wore her usual dark gown, fitted and severe, her hair pinned back so tightly it made her look carved from stone rather than flesh.
Estel and Vorna followed behind her in a small, neat line. Their footsteps were soft, almost silent, but their fear wasn’t. It clung to them like a second skin. Estel’s eyes rose just enough to meet mine only for a heartbeat.
Fear widened her gaz
