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Zephyra's POV

I parked Mom's battered old car in the driveway, the familiar creak of its doors bringing back childhood memories. Gathering the groceries from the back seat, I carried them up the path to the house. Before I can put the key in the lock, the door swings open, revealing Mom's warm smile.

"Hey, Mom," I greet her, my own smile fading as I notice the serious expression on her face. "I got all the ingredients you wanted, and I picked up some ice cream for dessert. Do you..." I trail off, sensing something amiss.

She reaches to take the bags from my hands, her touch gentle yet firm. "Lirael's here," she says quietly.

My heart almost stops at the mention of his name. "What?" I manage to utter, disbelief and a tinge of panic creeping into my voice.

"Yeah, he's here," Mom confirms. "But it's up to you if he stays."

I throttle the feeling of betrayal that swells in my chest. Mom wouldn't have let him in if he hadn't given her a good enough reason. I just don't have a clue what tha