PIECES

Part 27

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Elise’s POV

I stared at my reflection in the mirror for what felt like the tenth time that morning, trying to convince myself that I looked okay — or at least presentable enough for my first day. My heart had been doing this weird rapid-beating thing since dawn, and no matter what I told myself, the anxiety just wouldn’t calm down.

Starting work as an intern at Royals felt like stepping into a completely new world. It wasn’t just because the company was famous or respected; it was because this was the first time in a very long while that I would be interacting with people without constantly glancing over my shoulder, terrified that my father might suddenly appear out of nowhere.

For the first time, I felt… free. Or at least something close to it.

I wore a simple but well-tailored