Lilly's POV
"Evening, Mother; evening, Father," Adira sang as she approached. Her voice was a sweet melody that traveled a short distance, drawing smiles from her parents.
"Welcome back, dear daughter," her father said, his gaze flickering toward me.
"Who's your friend?" her mother asked, curiosity evident in her eyes.
Four pairs of eyes stared at me, frozen in place, and something that resembled fear flickered in their expressions.
"Oh, that's Asena," Adira chirped excitedly, gesturing for us to get closer. "Come on, don't be shy. Come and meet my family. They wouldn't bite..."
Asena moved closer but abruptly halted when a sneer appeared on one of Adira's brother's lips.
"But she might..." he mumbled just loud enough for me to hear.
Everyone stiffened at his words, and a chill ran
