( Aria's pov)
I woke up before the sun. My body ached, my arms and legs stiff from the long ride and the rough hands that had brought me here. The mansion smelled cold and sharp. Even the walls seemed to judge me.
Elena was already in the room, her eyes sharp. Mia followed close behind, folding her arms like she owned the world.
“Get up,” Elena said. “You have chores. You have work to do.”
I nodded silently. I had learned long ago that arguing with them would only make things worse. I still hated myself for trusting anyone here.
Mia sneered. “Try not to mess up today, Moonstone. I don’t want my father angry with me.”
I felt my chest tighten. Memories of our friendship surfaced — the times we laughed, shared secrets, and trusted each other. Now she was my tormentor.
I moved through t
