The very thought of asking Maria for help felt like a betrayal of everything I stood for. She was the reason for the growing distance between Aiden and me—the invisible wedge that had driven us apart. How could I possibly warm to her, knowing there was still a place in Aiden's heart that would always remain hers? Yet, what choice did I have?
I knew what had to be done.
Despite the bitterness that twisted inside me like a thorn and the anger simmering just beneath the surface, I needed Maria's expertise. For Lyra, I had to put aside my pride and confront the woman who had become the unwelcome shadow in my life. The stakes were too high, and I had to do whatever it took to save my daughter, even if it meant seeking the help of my enemy.
I turned to Jacobs, my resolve hardening.
“Then I’ll speak to her."
As I prepared to face Maria, a storm of emotions brewed within me—anger, fear, determination. With a deep breath, I headed toward their Coven's quarters.