AMARA’S POV

I walked straight to my room as soon as I arrived home, my steps quiet but my heart pounding. I needed to fix myself before facing Dad. I already knew he was home because his car was parked neatly outside. The sight of it sent a small tremor of anxiety through me. Every time I saw it, I felt the weight of expectations pressing down on my shoulders.

“Done.” I looked at myself in the mirror. My hair was brushed neatly, my clothes straightened, and my posture controlled. I ...