Petal's POV

The silence after Rosie’s accusation hung heavier than the sickness itself.

Even when the meeting had ended and everyone drifted away, the echo of her voice still clung to the walls like smoke that refused to fade.

I stood alone in the hall long after they were gone. The fire had burned low, its embers glowing dull and red, and the smell of ash filled the room.

Every heartbeat was a reminder of the wolves outside of their eyes, their whispers, their doubt.

She’s the curse. ...