Chapter 206

I glanced at Xavier from the corner of my eye, but the elderly lady’s authoritative glare held me in place.

I didn’t know what to say. I barely had any memories of my mother. All I had was an unopened letter, the one I still hadn’t had the courage to open. How could I explain why I had taken such extreme measures to enter a place so tightly secured and secretive?

“I don’t have all day.” The elderly lady raised an impatient eyebrow, expecting an answer.

“Who am I answering to, ma’am?” I tried to buy myself some time, though I knew it was futile.

“I am the one in charge of your fate. So, be quick with your answers, and don’t try to be smart with me.” Her voice didn’t rise, but the calmness in it was somehow far more threatening. “Let’s start with your and her name.”

I took a deep breath, feeling like I was about to take a leap of faith into the unknown. “I am Zoe Simmons. Daughter of Joe and Aroosa Simmons.” Saying my mother's name felt strange—especially after what my father had done t