|| Lilac’s POV ||

“Thanks for the ride, Elara,” I said, my voice barely above a whisper.

“Anytime,” she replied, her tone gentle. “Call me if you need anything.”

I nodded, stepping out of the car and into the cool morning air. The walk to the door felt longer than usual, each step heavier than the last. Dad’s eyes followed me, his gaze piercing as I approached.

“Lilac,” he said, his voice firm but not unkind. “We need to ...