Lina’s POV
The room felt smaller after he left. Not because of the walls. But because of the rule. I stand there for a moment longer, staring at the closed door, then exhale slowly. My cheek still tingles. My thigh burns faintly beneath the fabric. The sting lingers but it's the warning that lingers deeply.
“Try that again, and I won’t be measured about it.”
I let out a quiet breath through my mouth. He thinks fear will tame me. He doesn’t understand something. Fear sharpens me.
A knock sounds at the door.
Three short taps.
I didn’t answer immediately. Let them wait. Let them wonder if I’m crying.
The knock comes again. “Donna?” The person behind the door called out.
It’s Niel.
I walk over and open the door halfway. He stands straight, eyes forward, careful not to look at my face
