Each word felt like a blow, eroding what was left of my resolve. All I wanted was to escape, to break free from the toxic grasp of the people I once considered family. But the upcoming competition loomed over me, and without my ID, I couldn’t even register.
Seeing my distress, Lauren finally relented, pulling me to my feet with a forced smile that lacked warmth. “Alright, let’s not bring this up again. Maddy just signed up for an expedition activity,” Lauren said. “Why don’t you accompany her? It’ll be good for both of you.”
Madilyn naturally invited me as a gesture of reconciliation, leaving me with no choice but to agree.
“Don’t come near her!”
Tristan’s sudden shout cut through my memories, dragging me back to the harsh reality.
“Leave Aliyah alone!” he yelled, blocking the Monticello family from approaching my lifeless body. “You’re not worthy to touch her!”