Chapter 38: Trapped in Her Lies

Ella’s POV

I stared at Mara as she walked into the kitchen, her smile sharp and cruel. The sticky oats still dripped from my hair, and my cheek burned where Cara had slapped me. I wanted to step aside, to leave before this turned worse, but Mara blocked my path. She folded her arms, eyes full of mockery.

“Where are you going, Ella?” she asked, her tone sweet but poisonous. “I’m not finished talking to you.”

I took a deep breath, trying to stay calm. ...