Ivana's POV

I didn’t notice that the hospital smell had clung to my skin until we reached Mala’s apartment. I smelled of antiseptic, bleach and fear but I was grateful to be out of the hospital.

The cab pulled away, leaving us in the soft glow of the hallway light. Mala kept her arm looped through mine as if I might disappear between one step and the next.

“Easy,” she murmured, nudging the door open with her hip. “You’re safe now, welcome back home Ivy.” yes, this ...