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Ariel inhaled deeply and slowly exhaled, letting out a shaky sigh of relief as she realized she was lying on her bed, the soft sheets tangling around her limbs.
My head… it hurts, she thought, pressing her fingers to her temple. What happened to me? When did I get home? Did Horace… did he bring me back from school?
She slowly pushed herself up, her back resting against the pillows, her mind still foggy with confusion.
Her pulse spiked the moment her gaze fell upon the lady sitting beside her, eyes drilling into her like sharpened daggers.
"You are good at nothing but trouble," came Alicia's harsh, measured voice, and Ariel flinched involuntarily.
The door creaked open, and Tiasses stepped in, carrying a glass of milk. Ariel tried to rush toward her, but her body refused to respond — as if invisible chains held her in place.
What is happening? Why can't I move? Oh my God! panic clawed at her mind.
