~ARIEL~

I was finally back at home with Ashton's family after several grueling days spent with the Soul Keepers, during which I was constantly bombarded with their relentless orders and directives. I was exhausted from the constant demands. Being forced to endure their presence, witnessing Ashton and Hazel together every moment—it all drained me emotionally and physically.

It felt as though life harbored a deep resentment against me, possibly justified given the lies I had spoken to Ashton ...