Chapter 64

~ Hazel’s POV

My feet felt glued to the floor in front of Rayel's door. I pounded on it with my fists, screaming his name, demanding he open up. But he wouldn't budge. Fury burned through me, so hot I almost ripped the door right off its hinges. Then, I slammed on the brakes. “Breathe,” I told myself. “Just breathe,” I said to myself a bit. I couldn't believe I had let him manipulate me.

My anger was still raw, and with a frustrated yell, I lashed out with a kick at the door. It probably didn't even faze Rayel, but it sure felt good in the moment. Stomping back to the dining hall, I found Daciana already there, digging into her food with a puzzled frown. Swallowing my rage, I plastered on a smile and joined her. She gave a small smile back, and I forced myself to ask about the food, anything to sound normal. "Delicious, right?" she said, thankfully oblivious to the storm brewing inside me. I waved to a nearby maid, who hurried over with a plate piled high with food. Trying to focus on