27: Father

After realizing she was Zheira and not Alic, she ran back to her room, burying her face to the pillows. Her tears started streaming as a flesh-searing pain sparked through her veins. The memory felt so real. It’s as if—in a short period—she was Alic. She felt her agony inside the tube and the difficulty of her sacrifice. Even at this moment, she could still feel her pain. She wasn’t aware that her gift would be this impactful. 

She suppressed a sob when the door creaked. “L-leave me alone.”

Vladimir ignored her and sat on the edge of the bed. “I’m here to apologize.” He swallowed. “I admit I lied but it was for your own—” 

“Zip it. I don’t want to hear your excuses.”

“Listen, Zheira!” He pulled the strands of his hair. “There are things you shouldn’t have learn—” 

“You cannot decide that!” She sat upright, releasing a steamy glare. “You have no right to choose whether or not I need to know such things. All I want is for you to be honest,