ALIYAH'S POV
The morning sunlight bled faintly through the curtains when I opened my eyes. I had barely slept. Every muscle in my body ached from training, but it was my mind that had truly exhausted me. The weight of secrets pressed heavily on my chest, but I forced myself to move. I had promises to keep.
I slipped into one of my biggest hoodies, pulled my sweatpants higher, and tied the drawstring tight. My reflection in the mirror stared back at me, pale, with faint shadows under my eyes, but still passable. Still hiding, that was all that mattered.
Papa had left money on the dining table for groceries. I tucked the bills into my pocket, kissed him on the cheek, and assured him I’d be quick.
“Don’t take long,” Papa said. His voice carried that protective edge that always made me bo
