“You're sending me where?" Alexander frowned.
Jessica smoothed his collar. “Snowridge. For negotiations. Two days, no more."
He stepped back. “This wasn't on the agenda."
“It is now," she said sweetly. “The border packs need reassurance."
He hesitated. “And Melodie?"
Jessica tilted her head. “She'll be under my care. Like always."
---
As soon as his carriage vanished beyond the gates, Jessica turned to the guards.
“Bring her," she ordered.
---
Melodie was dragged from the laundry hall, wrists bound, breath shallow.
“Where are you taking me?" she demanded.
Jessica smiled. “Home."
They descended into the ruins of Felix's cellar.
Dark. Cold. Familiar.
The same post still stood, splintered and bloodstained.
Jessica shoved her forward. “History repeats."
---
“You don't have to
