I fell into a deep, dreamless sleep after enjoying a warm bath. It was the most rest I'd had in days—no nightmares. I woke up the following morning to a hot meal in the dining hall. Thankfully, Jay was out of sight. I did not have the energy to confront him. Not after everything.It was nearing noon when I got back into bed, poised to retreat again into sleep, when a knock on my door interrupted me. Mary slipped in unobtrusively, looking uncomfortable."Luna Agatha, is in the garden. She wants to see you," she whispered.Her very name caused my stomach to knot up. Nonetheless, I nodded and stood up from bed, putting on a plain dress. There was no point in waiting.I discovered Agatha sitting demurely in the shade of the mango tree in the garden, her back straight, her stance graceful, a vision of noble beauty. She stood up as I got near and unfolded her arms."Mother," I said, managing to smile as I stepped into her hug. She wrapped me in her arms, her perfume too sweet, too pungent,
Last Updated : 2026-01-13 Read more