Chapter 25

Syria’s POV

When I got back home, I made sure no one saw me sneaking in—especially the guards.

If they found out I was late, I’d be punished again.

My ears twitched at the faintest sounds—footsteps, breaths, and heartbeats.

I held my breath as I slipped through the large front doors of the mansion, silently hoping no one would be lurking around.

But just as I stepped inside, someone yanked my hair hard from behind.

“Ah!” I gasped, eyes widening in shock. “What the hell—?!”

“You!” a familiar voice hissed. “Why are you home so late?!”

I turned around, heart thudding like war drums in my chest.

It was Novene.

Her face was twisted with rage and disgust, and for a second, I couldn’t believe she was out of the punishment room already. I thought my uncle had locked her up after what she did.

Clearly, that didn’t last long.

“Did you sneak out to meet some guy again? Huh? Slut!” she spat, her voice thick with sarcasm and mockery.

“What are you doing? Leave me alone!” I yelled, slapping he