Maya's POV

“Um… I’m not sure how everyone’s going to feel about this, but we may be expecting a guest,” I said, my voice uncertain. “My mother spelled the letter. When I opened it, it acted like a beacon, revealing my location. I don’t know how long it will take, but… she’s coming.”

The room went still. I was stunned myself. I had not expected this, any of it.

The line 'if I’m still alive' hit me harder than I thought it would. I blinked fast, trying to keep the tears at ...