My lips were numb from being pressed together for too long. I could barely feel them. My heart was a mess of emotions, tangled and unrelenting.

If Kai hadn't blocked my way, I wouldn't even be here.

But the world isn't kind to "what ifs."

Anne's stare sent a chill down my spine.

I saw right through her.

If I so much as tried to leave, she'd have the staff rush in and drag me back like some runaway patient.

But ...