Seraphina's POV
I stand in front of the mirror, staring at myself like I don’t even know the girl looking back. The long-sleeved bodycon dress hugs my body, but the sleeves cover every mark, every bruise I don’t want the world to see. My hair’s a mess, just twisted into a bun, loose strands falling out no matter how many times I try to fix it. I don’t care enough to fix it anymore.
Mom keeps walking around behind me, fixing her makeup for the tenth time. She looks excited, like this dinner means something big. For me, it’s just another night I have to survive.
‘Fix your hair at least,’ she says, giving me a pointed look from the door.
I tug at a loose strand but don’t bother trying. ‘It’s fine.’
She huffs but lets it go. I know she wants tonight to be perfect. I also know I’m going to
