**Elena’s POV**

The breakfast felt like sawdust in my mouth. I took small bites of the eggs and toast, but I couldn't taste anything. Every swallow was a struggle. My throat felt tight, as if it wanted to reject everything. But I forced myself to chew and swallow. I did it for the tiny heartbeat inside me.After the last plates were cleared, we moved into the grand living room. This room was full of my childhood memories. I remembered playing on the rug as sunlight hit the heavy curtains. I ...